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Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has awarded Morgan State University, the nation’s third-largest Historically Black College or University (HBCU), an unrestricted gift of $63 million. This monumental donation is the largest single gift ever received by an HBCU.
The new contribution brings Scott’s total giving to Morgan State to an astonishing $103 million in less than five years, following her first gift of $40 million in 2020. This repeated investment is seen as a powerful endorsement of the university’s recent success and future vision.
Unrestricted Funds for Strategic Growth
Unlike most major donations, Scott’s gift comes with no restrictions, giving the University freedom on how the money is used.
The $63 million will be used to strengthen Morgan State’s endowment, increase support for student success, and advance the university’s role as a major research institution in Baltimore.
“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,” said Morgan State President David K. Wilson.
A History of Success
Morgan State has seen record growth in recent years, including increased enrollment, new degree programs, and the establishment of research centers focusing on areas like urban health, climate change, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The initial $40 million gift in 2020 was a “watershed moment” for Morgan, fueling the “Leading the World Endowment Fund” and inspiring a record $20 million donation from alumnus Calvin Tyler and his wife, Tina.
The new funding is particularly significant as Morgan recently announced plans to launch the nation’s first public, nonprofit M.D. medical school at an HBCU.
President Wilson stated that the investment will accelerate their momentum in “breaking barriers, advancing equity, and fulfilling our vision to become one of the top public research universities in the country.”
