MacKenzie Scott Makes Historic $42 Million Gift to Elizabeth City State University

In a transformative moment for HBCU philanthropy, Elizabeth City State University received a $42 million donation from billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott during its Founders Day Convocation, as announced by Chancellor S. Keith Hargrove Sr.

The North Carolina institution, celebrating 135 years of service and impact, received what the university describes as the largest dollar-per-student gift received by any HBCU among Scott's recent rounds of giving. This remarkable contribution nearly triples the amount Elizabeth City State previously received from Scott in 2020, providing unprecedented momentum for the northeastern North Carolina HBCU.

Perfect Timing for Strategic Growth

The announcement comes at a pivotal moment as Elizabeth City State begins implementing its new five-year strategic plan, ASCEND 2030. Chancellor Hargrove emphasized the significance of the timing and Scott's recognition of HBCUs' vital role in higher education.

I want to express our deepest gratitude to Mackenzie Scott for this remarkable act of generosity and for her recognition of the critical role that HBCUs play in expanding opportunity and strengthening communities.



Her investment affirms what we already know: that institutions like ECSU are powerful catalysts for change.

Investing in ECSU's Future

University officials outlined how the transformative funding will support several major priorities, including:

• Endowed scholarships designed to improve student learning and success
• Endowments for innovative academic programs
• Upgrades to academic infrastructure
• Athletic facility improvements
• Residential infrastructure enhancements

For Elizabeth City State, founded in 1891, this gift represents more than financial support—it's a powerful vote of confidence in the institution's long-term vision and continued impact.

Gifts like this do more than provide resources; they accelerate momentum. This gift allows institutions like Elizabeth City State University to move boldly toward the future while remaining grounded in the mission that has guided us for 135 years.

At a time when many HBCU institutions continue fighting for equitable resources, Scott's investment in Elizabeth City State sends a powerful message about the enduring value and mission of historically Black colleges and universities. This Founders Day announcement serves as a reminder that ECSU's commitment to serving as a gateway to higher education for Black students and families in North Carolina and beyond remains as vital today as it was over a century ago.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.