During this divisive period in the U.S., Historically Black Colleges and Universities are receiving significant philanthropic funding that leaders say will strengthen academic programs, support capital projects and help students excel.
In recent weeks, philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has donated millions to Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University and Howard University — adding to the substantial gifts she has made to the institutions over the last five years.
This week, Spelman announced that Scott has provided her second major monetary gift to the school since 2020. A 2025 donation of $38 million builds on the $20 million received five years ago.
The latest contribution will allow Spelman to build a state-of-the-art technology facility and expand its financial aid and scholarship programs, according to a statement from the college.
“This investment is a powerful affirmation of our mission and our commitment to educational excellence and equity,” Interim President Rosalind “Roz” Brewer said. “…It is an investment in both our present and our future as we continue to advance our legacy of producing change-making global leaders.”
Last Monday, Clark Atlanta University announced it had received a total of $53 million in philanthropic gifts from Scott. The total includes a previous $15 million contribution made in 2020 and a new $38 million donation.
Howard University has also reported receiving new funding from the billionaire philanthropist. This month, the university announced an $80 million gift. Scott previously donated $52 million to Howard in 2020 and 2023, bringing her cumulative contributions there to $132 million.
Scott is the former wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
Her charitable organization, Yield Giving, manages and distributes her philanthropic investments. According to its website, Yield Giving has donated $19.25 billion to 2,450 organizations.
In a 2019 essay titled, The Giving Pledge, Scott wrote that she has “a disproportionate amount of money to share.”
She wrote: ”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.”
