MacKenzie Scott continues her philanthropic run by donating millions to more Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Previously married to Amazon co-founder Jeff Bezos for over 25 years, the former couple finalized their divorce in 2019. After playing a pivotal role in Amazon’s early growth, Scott turned to philanthropy, making substantial donations to organizations in need.
MacKenzie Scott donated $700 million to HBCUs
Recently, MacKenzie Scott reportedly donated $63 million to Prairie View A&M University in Texas, $50 million to Bowie State University in Maryland, and $19 million to Philander Smith University in Arkansas. Meanwhile, Bowie State University became the 15th historically black institution to receive a donation from Scott since the start of the academic year.
President Dr. Aminta H. Breaux of Bowie State wrote in a statement expressing her gratitude for the donation. “Her generosity arrives at a pivotal moment in our 160-year story. It empowers us to expand access, elevate our research and academic excellence, and uplift generations of students who will lead, serve, and innovate. Higher education is the pathway to upward social mobility for our students and the communities we serve, and, with this gift, their futures are brighter than ever.”
Apart from these recent donations, receiving $50 million, Norfolk State University in Virginia said it will reach its next level of excellence due to MacKenzie Scott’s gift to the school.
Earlier in September, the 55-year-old novelist also donated $70 million to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) in an effort to strengthen HBCUs. Following this, UNCF President and CEO Michael L. Lomax referred to Scott as “Saint MacKenzie Scott” when speaking with ABC News. “She is rewriting the book on philanthropy, not just in this country, but in the world.”
Additionally, the highest donation amount of $80 million was made to Howard University in Washington, D.C., in early November.
Originally reported by Elton Fernandes on Mandatory.
