You might know MacKenzie Scott as a prolific philanthropist, making record-breaking donations to various causes, especially Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). But have you ever wondered about her personal connection to the Black community? The answer might surprise you: it’s deeply rooted in her relationship with the legendary Nobel Peace Prize-winning author, Toni Morrison.
From Student to Protégé
Long before she became a billionaire, MacKenzie Scott was a student honing her craft. In the early 1990s, she was an English major at Princeton University, where she had the incredible opportunity to study creative writing under the literary giant Toni Morrison. Morrison, the celebrated author of “Beloved,” recognized Scott’s talent early on.
Morrison reportedly called Scott “one of the best students I’ve ever had,” praising her exceptional discipline and natural storytelling abilities. This early mentorship clearly had a profound impact, shaping not only Scott’s writing career but also the course of her entire life.
A Recommendation That Changed Everything
After graduating from Princeton, Scott moved to New York City, working as a waitress while pursuing her writing dreams. When she applied for a position at the prestigious hedge fund D.E. Shaw & Co., it was Morrison who reportedly stepped in. Morrison made a glowing recommendation, which was instrumental in helping her former student secure the job.
This pivotal moment led Scott to meet Jeff Bezos, who was then a senior vice president at the firm. Their connection was rapid; they began dating, got engaged within three months, and married six months later. This chance encounter, facilitated by Morrison’s recommendation, set in motion the events that would eventually lead to the founding of Amazon.
From Amazon’s Garage to Global Philanthropy
The couple relocated to Seattle in 1994, where Bezos famously founded Amazon out of their garage. Scott played a crucial, albeit behind-the-scenes, role in those early days, managing the company’s accounting and operations before shifting her focus back to writing. Over the next 25 years, Amazon’s meteoric rise transformed them into one of the world’s wealthiest couples.
Tragically, Toni Morrison passed away in 2019, the same year Scott finalized her divorce from Bezos. She received a significant portion of his Amazon holdings, valued at approximately $36 billion. Almost immediately, Scott began her journey of giving it away, signing the Giving Pledge and vowing to donate her fortune until “the safe is empty.”
Her philanthropic efforts have since channeled billions into organizations focused on equity, education, and racial justice. Her substantial investments in HBCUs, including millions for Howard University, Morgan State University, and Spelman College, highlight her commitment to these communities, a commitment perhaps indirectly influenced by the profound connection she forged with Toni Morrison.
What do you think about MacKenzie Scott’s connection to Toni Morrison? Share your thoughts in the comments below!