MacKenzie Scott has donated $38 million to Xavier University of Louisiana, the HBCU announced on Tuesday. The unrestricted gift is the second donation to the university and the largest in its history. It is also Scott’s latest donation to an HBCU after significant contributions to Howard University, Spelman College, Bowie State University and more throughout the year.
MacKenzie Scott’s donation is the largest in Xavier University’s history
The donation comes as Xavier celebrated its centennial year — Scott had previously donated $20 million to the university in 2020.
“This generous gift from MacKenzie Scott fills us with profound gratitude,” Xavier president Dr. Reynold Verret said in a press release. “To receive such an investment near the close of our Centennial year is both humbling and inspiring. These funds will enable us to expand our affordability initiatives, which directly support talented students from diverse backgrounds. Ms. Scott’s belief in Xavier’s mission strengthens our resolve to carry forward the legacy of Saint Katharine Drexel and prepare future generations to lead with truth, justice, and service. This gift affirms who we are—and who we are becoming—at a pivotal moment in our history.”
The HBCU said the donation will help support its ongoing Centennial Capital Campaign, which aims at enhancing affordability for students and strengthening academic, social and professional opportunities.
Xavier’s $500 million fundraising campaign is currently in its third year, Complex reported. The goal is to expand financial aid for students, improve campus faculties and support faculty recruitment.
MacKenzie Scott has donated an estimated $19 billion to charities and universities
In 2019, Scott became a billionaire following her divorce from Jeff Bezos when she obtained shares in Amazon. Her net worth is currently estimated at $34 billion, according to Forbes. Shortly after her divorce, Scott joined the Giving Pledge and promised to give the majority of her wealth to charitable causes.
“I have no doubt that tremendous value comes when people act quickly on the impulse to give. No drive has more positive ripple effects than the desire to be of service,” she said, according to People. “My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care. But I won’t wait. And I will keep at it until the safe is empty.”
Since 2020, Scott has donated over $19 billion to over 2,400 non-profit organizations, including charities supporting racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality and relief from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Just this fall alone, she donated over $700 million to HBCUS — a growing list that includes Prairie View A&M University, Howard University, Bowie State University, North Carolina A&T State University, Norfolk State University, Winston-Salem State University and Spelman College.