Morgan State Receives Historic $63M from MacKenzie Scott

Morgan State University is celebrating a monumental achievement in its history with a staggering $63 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. This incredible contribution is the largest single gift the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) has ever received, surpassing even Scott’s previous generous donation.

A Historic Second Investment

This isn’t the first time Scott has invested in Morgan State. In 2020, she gifted the university $40 million. Her renewed commitment with this record-breaking $63 million, described as an unrestricted contribution, underscores her confidence in the university’s mission and leadership. This marks the second significant donation from Scott to the institution.

The announcement comes at a time when Morgan State is experiencing remarkable growth and success. The university has achieved record enrollment numbers, launched new degree and certificate programs, and recently secured a $1.75 million grant to establish a medical school. Scott’s latest donation will further bolster these efforts, supporting student success initiatives, scaling the university’s endowment, and advancing programs that position Morgan State as a “Public Impact Very High Research University.”

Partnership in Progress

David K. Wilson, president of Morgan State University, expressed profound gratitude for Scott’s renewed investment. “MacKenzie Scott’s renewed investment in Morgan is a resounding testament to the work we’ve done to drive transformation, not only within our campus but throughout the communities we serve,” he stated in a news release. “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.”

Endia DeCordova, vice president for institutional advancement and executive director of the Morgan State University Foundation, echoed this sentiment. “We are grateful for donors like MacKenzie Scott, whose groundbreaking vision through philanthropy has created sustained, generational impact at Morgan,” she commented. “Our thoughtful stewardship of her initial gift has strengthened Morgan’s capacity to grow our endowment and create meaningful opportunities for our students while strategically investing in the University’s future.”

DeCordova added that Scott’s continued trust affirms Morgan’s position as a leader. “This new transformative contribution — and her continued trust in Morgan — affirm that we are not only rising but leading, charting a bold path forward for our students and our institution.”