MacKenzie Scott Gives Record-Breaking $63 Million to Morgan State University
Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has made another historic donation to Morgan State University. The Maryland-based HBCU received $63 million, marking its largest single gift to date.
This latest donation brings her total contributions to the school to $103 million since 2020. Her first gift of $40 million helped fuel the university’s expansion plans. Now, this second round of funding is expected to push the institution even further in its growth as a national leader among HBCUs.
Morgan State is the third-largest HBCU in the country. This support gives the university the power to invest in students, strengthen its research efforts, and deepen its endowment.
A Transformative Investment for HBCU Research and Student Success
Scott’s donation comes with no restrictions, giving university leaders the freedom to make strategic decisions. This flexibility allows Morgan State to direct the funds toward student success programs, faculty development, and research innovation.
The university is currently working toward earning Carnegie R1 Research University status. If successful, it would become only the second HBCU in the nation to reach that level. This new funding will speed up that process.
“This investment is a resounding testament to the work we’ve done to drive transformation, not only within our campus but throughout the communities we serve,” said David K. Wilson, president of Morgan State, in a statement.
A Partnership That Strengthens HBCU Philanthropy
Scott’s generosity has sparked a wave of donations toward other HBCUs. Her previous support helped Morgan State build the Center for Urban Health Equity and the National Center for the Elimination of Educational Disparities.
This new funding will also support the launch of the first public, nonprofit medical school at an HBCU. The project aims to advance healthcare equity and create new opportunities for diverse scholars.
“To receive one historic gift from Ms. Scott was an incredible honor; to receive two speaks volumes about the confidence she and her team have in our institution’s stewardship, leadership, and trajectory. This is more than philanthropy—it’s a partnership in progress,” Wilson added.
Building a Future of Equity, Access, and Excellence
With this level of trust and support, Morgan State has the ability to make bold investments in its future. The donation strengthens its independence, allowing the university to chart its own course.
“Morgan is on an extraordinary journey,” Wilson said. “This investment will allow us to accelerate that momentum, breaking barriers, advancing equity, and fulfilling our vision to become one of the top public research universities in the country—without losing our soul.”
Scott’s donation is not just about funding a university. It is about fueling the next generation of Black scholars, doctors, researchers, and leaders who will shape the future.
