Alcorn State University has announced a $25 million gift from philanthropist and author MacKenzie Scott. The historically Black college said the donation marks the largest gift from a single donor in its 150-year history.
“This gift is truly transformational and we are humbled by Ms. Scott’s generosity,” said Alcorn President Felecia M. Nave in a statement. “It will more than double the size of our endowment. The gift will allow the University to enhance its academic offerings and make much-needed investments to continue Alcorn’s mission as the nation’s first public, historically black, land-grant university,” she said.
On Medium, Scott wrote that the "pandemic has been a wrecking ball in the lives of Americans already struggling," adding that the economic losses and health outcomes alike have been worse for women, for people of color, and for people living in poverty. Meanwhile, it has substantially increased the wealth of billionaires, Scott noted.
“A significant number of Alcorn’s students are the first in their families to attend college and Ms. Scott’s pivotal gift in these uncertain times will help ensure that students have access to a life-changing education,” said Nave, who is an Alcorn alumna, chemical engineer, and the first female to serve in the position.
