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MacKenzie Scott’s $50 Million Gift to Bowie State Extends Record Wave of HBCU Support

The unrestricted award reflects her quiet, trust-based model that lets Bowie State set the priorities.

Overview

  • Bowie State confirmed the largest gift in its 160-year history, bringing Scott’s total support there to $75 million following a $25 million donation in 2020.
  • University leaders say the funds will strengthen the endowment, expand scholarships, support research and enhance the student experience.
  • The announcement comes as other HBCUs report major awards, including $63 million to North Carolina A&T, $63 million to Morgan State and $38 million to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.
  • ABC News reports more than $700 million has gone to over a dozen HBCUs this fall, with recent gifts to Prairie View A&M, Philander Smith, Norfolk State and an $80 million award to Howard.
  • Scott’s philanthropy remains largely behind the scenes, with her team revealing her involvement shortly before transfers and with few media interviews.