MacKenzie Scott’s Generous $38 Million Donation: How It Will Transform Alabama State University

Alabama State University (ASU) recently received a groundbreaking $38 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. This is the largest single gift in the school’s history, marking a significant milestone. ASU President Quinton Ross Jr. hailed it as a “pivotal” moment, highlighting the university’s growing impact on higher education in the U.S. He expressed that this donation underscores a belief in the potential of ASU’s students and faculty to foster meaningful change.

The donation was announced via the university’s Instagram, reflecting a rising trend where Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are increasingly attracting attention and support from private donors. Scott, known for her substantial philanthropic efforts, has contributed billions to various causes, particularly in education and racial equity.

In Alabama, HBCUs play a vital role, with 14 operating within the state—more than any other. ASU holds the position of the second-largest HBCU here, alongside Alabama A&M University. Interestingly, Scott’s recent donation aligns with her support for other institutions serving students of color. Earlier this month, she donated $70 million to the United Negro College Fund and $42 million to 10,000 Degrees, a nonprofit aiding first-generation college students. These unrestricted funds allow recipients to allocate them as they see fit.

Alabama State University has a rich historical background, established in 1867 for newly freed African Americans. Originally named Lincoln Normal School for Colored Students, the school was founded by nine formerly enslaved men, now known as the “Marion Nine.” These founders raised community funds to create a space for education, aiming to empower future generations.

In 1887, the school relocated to Montgomery, becoming a public teacher’s college and renaming it The State Normal School for Colored Students. This move solidified its role in the capital, where it evolved into one of the South’s most prominent HBCUs. Over time, ASU expanded its academic offerings, branching out into business, science, the arts, and health professions.

ASU’s influence extends beyond education; it has been a cradle for civil rights activism. Many students and faculty were key figures in the civil rights movement, notably during the Montgomery Bus Boycott of 1955–56, when faculty member Jo Ann Robinson helped organize protests. The campus also played a vital role in voter registration drives throughout the 1960s, making it a hub for community organizing.

According to recent surveys, support for HBCUs is on the rise, with many donors recognizing their importance in promoting educational equity. Research shows that students at HBCUs often perform better academically, highlighting the need for continued investment. As the landscape of higher education evolves, contributions like Scott’s not only support these institutions but also reflect a growing commitment to fostering diverse educational environments.

For more details on HBCU contributions and Scott’s philanthropic work, visit AL.com.



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