MacKenzie Scott’s $42 million donation to Elizabeth City State University in North Carolina this spring pushed her total giving to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) beyond $1 billion. This milestone is part of Scott’s broader $26 billion philanthropic commitment since 2020, which supports organizations focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, disaster recovery, community development, health, and environmental causes, according to fortune.com.
The donation was made on the university’s Founders Day and is intended to support Elizabeth City State University’s ASCEND 2030 strategic plan, which aims to expand opportunities for students and strengthen community ties. Chancellor S. Keith Hargrove, Sr., expressed his gratitude, highlighting Scott’s recognition of the critical role HBCUs play in expanding opportunity and strengthening communities. He said the gift accelerates momentum beyond just providing resources, fortune.com reported.
Scott’s philanthropic efforts to HBCUs are among the largest contributions to these institutions, reflecting a growing trend of major donations from high-profile individuals. For example, JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon and his wife Judith recently committed $12 million to 12 HBCUs. Scott, the ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has donated to thousands of organizations since 2020, emphasizing support for historically underserved communities and causes, fortune.com noted.
Elizabeth City State University’s ASCEND 2030 plan will benefit directly from Scott’s donation, aiming to enhance student opportunities and community engagement. The $42 million gift was announced earlier this year on the school’s Founders Day, marking a significant milestone in philanthropic support for HBCUs.