MacKenzie Scott Donates $155 Million to Bridge Higher Ed DEI Gap

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MacKenzie Scott Donates $155 Million to Bridge Higher Ed DEI Gap

MacKenzie Scott, a prominent figure in philanthropy, continues to make significant contributions to higher education and equity initiatives. Recently, she announced donations totaling $155 million to several public colleges, emphasizing her focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

Recent Philanthropic Donations by MacKenzie Scott

$50 million to California State University-East Bay
$50 million to Lehman College, part of the City University of New York
$38 million to Texas A&M University-Kingsville
$17 million to Seminole State College

These institutions aim to support low-income, first-generation, and racially diverse students. They often serve as minority-serving institutions, directly aligning with Scott’s mission to aid “chronically underserved” communities.

Impact on Higher Education

Scott’s contributions are notable, as many are the largest single donations ever received by these campuses. The emphasis on unrestricted funds allows the colleges to allocate resources as they see fit, fostering innovation and support for their student bodies.

Lehman College President Fernando Delgado expressed gratitude, saying the gift serves as encouragement during uncertain times for higher education. Scott’s donations are particularly impactful following budget cuts in education and disaster recovery under previous administrations.

Broader Philanthropic Efforts

This year, Scott also made significant contributions to historically Black colleges. She donated $80 million to Howard University and $60 million to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy. These donations aim to help communities recover from disasters exacerbated by governmental funding cuts.

Patricia McIlreavy, president and CEO of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, noted the essential role of philanthropy in community resilience. “All sectors of society—public, private, and social—share responsibility for helping communities thrive after a disaster,” she remarked.

A Unique Approach to Philanthropy

Scott’s approach is characterized by trust-based philanthropy. She focuses on unrestricted gifts that allow organizations flexibility in addressing their needs. This strategy is relatively uncommon among major philanthropists.

Her commitment to philanthropy is deeply personal. Scott has frequently cited acts of kindness from others as her inspiration for giving back. She plans to donate the vast majority of her wealth, which she built primarily through her 2019 divorce from Jeff Bezos.

Overall, MacKenzie Scott’s contributions continue to play a transformative role in higher education while addressing critical social issues related to equity and inclusion.