Making North Carolina a more attractive place for others to live and work is important to Steve Bell (BA ’67).

Bell is founder and chairman of Bell Partners Inc., a privately held apartment investment and management company based in Greensboro, N.C., and focused on high-quality multifamily communities throughout the U.S.

When he heard about UNC Kenan-Flagler’s goal to make innovative business education more accessible and accommodate even more talented students, he was completely on board, demonstrating his commitment when the School was raising money for the expansion of the Rizzo Center.

Bell gave his LLC interest in three apartment properties to the University, enabling him to receive a charitable income tax deduction for the interests’ appraised value. The revenue generated by the properties supports UNC Kenan-Flagler and the Department of Music in the UNC College of Arts & Sciences.

“Because I’m in the apartment business and own various income properties, this was the best way for me to share,” says Bell. “When all three properties are sold, we think the School should receive more than originally anticipated.”

The newly expanded Rizzo Center facilities and programs are consistently ranked among the world’s best. The 29,000 square-foot building houses a wellness and fitness center, executive conference rooms, the B. Mayo Boddie Sr. Executive MBA Business Offices and a variety of guest accommodations. The Rizzo Center also features the Steven D. Bell Hall, named in his honor.

“I believe strongly in the goals and purpose of the Rizzo Center, and I’m proud of the finished expansion – it’s functional, attractive and should be a good draw for the University,” says Bell.

“I hope that my story motivates others to gift property as a viable way of sharing with the University. By giving to and maintaining a strong university, it benefits our state,” he adds.