We report the synthesis, characterization, and catalytic performance for gas phase propane dehydrogenation of single-site Co2+ ions supported on silica. Spectroscopic characterization by resonance Raman, electron paramagnetic resonance, and X-ray near-edge and extended absorption fine structure revealed that tetrahedrally coordinated Co2+ ions are chemisorbed into the trisiloxane rings on the surface of amorphous silica. In situ XAS shows that Co is not oxidized by air nor reduced by hydrogen even at 650 degrees C. For catalytic propane dehydrogenation, single-site Co2+/SiO2 exhibits selectivities >95% at 550 degrees C and >90% at 650 degrees C with stable activity over 24 h. Calculations with hybrid density functional theory support a non-redox mechanism for activation of C-H and H-H bonds by Co2+ similar to that previously reported for single-site Zn2+/SiO2. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier Inc.