Biola University in La Mirada last week announced a $40 million gift, the 117-year-old Christian college’s largest ever donation.

The gift, made by an anonymous Silicon Valley executive, will support faculty investment, endowed professorships, student scholarships and class equipment, the institution said. The donation is specifically for the School of Science, Technology and Health.

Biola President Barry Corey hailed the gift as “a landmark moment” for the university.

There’s already a plan for the money – a portion will be used to fund construction of two multi-million-dollar engineering garages covering more than 6,000 square feet of space. It will also be used to expand the Division of Technology’s programming.

“This incredible gift will fuel our efforts to achieve this vision,” said Matthew Rouse, dean of the School of Science, Technology and Health. “I believe the future is bright for Biola in the technology area, and our students will impact the world of technology for Christ.”

Students in this school work on hard-tech design and construction, including of racing vehicles, robotic systems, aerial drones and machine learning.

“We are standing at the threshold of a new era – one where technology will redefine how we live, work and connect,” the anonymous donor said in a statement. “In this moment of extraordinary change, we need leaders who not only understand innovation, but who are guided by wisdom, humility and conviction.”

• • •

A local Kia dealer was cited as the nation’s top-selling Kia dealership for the fifth year.

Car Pros Kia Glendale, one of the many dealerships along Brand Boulevard in the Jewel City, reported selling a record-breaking 726 new and used vehicles in August.

“These achievements are more than just about sales numbers,” said Matthew Phillips, chief executive of parent company Car Pros Automotive Group. “They are proof that our values-led approach works; by putting people and community first, we’ve built dealerships that not only help set the pace nationally but also create long-term trust with our customers.”