Billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has launched another sweeping round of higher education philanthropy — donating more than $300 million in just one month to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and organizations that expand college access for underrepresented students. Her latest contributions arrive at a critical moment, as many diversity and inclusion programs face political and financial pressures.
Among the most recent recipients is Alabama State University, which announced a record-breaking $38 million gift this week. “Today marks a defining moment in the history of Alabama State University,” said President Quinton Ross, calling the donation the largest in the school’s 158-year history and “a pivotal moment” for its future.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore received an identical amount last week, following an earlier $20 million gift from Scott in 2020. University System of Maryland Chancellor Jay A. Perman described the donation as “a resounding vote of confidence” that will strengthen the university’s ability to serve students and expand its impact as a leading HBCU.
Scott also contributed $63 million to Morgan State University — its second transformative gift from her since 2020. President David K. Wilson said the renewed investment “speaks volumes about the confidence she and her team have in our institution’s stewardship, leadership, and trajectory.”
Her support extends beyond individual campuses. In September, Scott gave $70 million to the United Negro College Fund to boost long-term financial stability for 37 member institutions. Additional donations included $50 million to the Native Forward Scholars Fund, $42 million to California-based 10,000 Degrees, and $10 million to the George M. Pullman Educational Foundation — each aimed at broadening access and success for students historically excluded from higher education.
Since pledging in 2019 to give away at least half her fortune, Scott has distributed over $19 billion to more than 2,000 organizations through her Yield Giving initiative. On her website, she reminded readers that while her major gifts attract attention, “any dollar amount is a vanishingly tiny fraction of the personal expressions of care being shared into the world this year.”
