Alcorn State University has received a transformative $42 million unrestricted donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, marking the largest single gift in the 154-year history of the nation’s oldest public historically Black land-grant university.
This new contribution builds on Scott’s previous $25 million gift in 2020, bringing her total investment in Alcorn to $67 million.
“Today marks a historic moment for Alcorn State University as we celebrate the largest single donation in our university’s history,” said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president of Alcorn State University. “We are immensely grateful for Ms. MacKenzie Scott’s continued investment in Alcorn, our students, and mission to create access. I also extend my deepest gratitude to our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters who champion our mission every day. Your unwavering commitment and belief in Alcorn State University make milestones like this possible.”
Scott’s latest unrestricted donation provides the university with the flexibility to address critical priorities and expand opportunities for students, faculty, and the surrounding community.
Scott’s earlier 2020 gift helped fund faculty endowments, scholarships, including the Rep. Alyce Clarke Mississippi First Scholarship program, and various capital projects tied to Alcorn’s long-term strategic plan.
Her continued support underscores a deep trust in Alcorn’s leadership and its impact as an institution advancing access, excellence, and opportunity in higher education.
Dr. Marcus D. Ward, senior vice president for institutional advancement and executive director of the ASU Foundation, Inc., praised the significance of the contribution:
“Receiving another record transformational gift within five years, this time $42 million, is both a powerful affirmation of Alcorn’s impact and a charge to all Alcornites to help accelerate our work for student success, campus sustainability, and enrollment growth.”
University leadership will collaborate closely with the ASU Foundation to strategically invest and allocate resources across top priorities, ensuring that the donation fuels long-term institutional growth and student success.
“This gift opens a new chapter for Alcorn State,” President Cook said. “We will use every dollar to support students, strengthen the university, and serve Mississippi and the nation for generations to come.”
Scott’s philanthropy continues to make a sweeping impact across higher education, particularly among HBCUs, empowering institutions like Alcorn State University to expand their mission and sustain future generations of leaders.
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