Bowie State University Announces $50 Million Gift from Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, Increasing Total Support to $75 Million, the Largest Single Donation in the University's 160-Year History

Bowie State University has announced a landmark $50 million unrestricted gift from MacKenzie Scott. This is the largest single donation in the university's 160-year history, bringing her total contribution to $75 million, following her initial $25 million gift in 2020.

University President Dr. Aminta H. Breaux called this a "pivotal" moment, emphasizing its impact on students and the community. She stated, "We are profoundly grateful to MacKenzie Scott for her visionary commitment to education and equity. Her generosity empowers us to expand access, elevate our research and academic excellence, and uplift generations of students who will lead, serve and innovate. Higher education is the pathway to upward social mobility for our students and the communities we serve, and, with this gift, their futures are brighter than ever."

The $50 million will strengthen BSU's endowment and support initiatives in the university's strategic plan, Boldly Forward. These funds will expand scholarships, reduce financial barriers, support research, and enhance the student experience across all academic disciplines.

Brent Swinton, Vice President for Philanthropic Engagement, noted that Scott’s earlier support increased national visibility and philanthropic interest. "The first gift from MacKenzie Scott elevated the visibility of BSU Bold: The Campaign for Excellence and inspired other philanthropists to take notice of this storied institution," Swinton said. "As we work toward the close of our campaign on December 31, 2025, we will continue building on this momentum — leveraging this latest transformational gift to inspire even greater support for our brilliant, yet often under-resourced students and faculty."

Ranked #11 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), BSU is a leader in STEAM fields, with strong programs in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and nursing. This investment positions Bowie State to extend its legacy of academic excellence and community impact.