Bowie State University Receives Historic $50 Million Gift from Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott — Largest in University History

(BOWIE, Md.) - Bowie State University is proud to announce a transformative $50 million unrestricted gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott - the largest single contribution in the university's 160-year history. Combined with her earlier $25 million gift in 2020, Scott's total investment in Bowie State now reaches an extraordinary $75 million.

"We are profoundly grateful to MacKenzie Scott for her visionary commitment to education and equity," said Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, president of Bowie State University. "Her generosity arrives at a pivotal moment in our 160-year story. It 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 gift will strengthen Bowie State University's endowment and advance key priorities in the university's new strategic plan, Boldly Forward. It will expand scholarships to reduce financial barriers, support research and innovation across disciplines, and enrich the student experience - ensuring that Bowie State continues to deliver on its mission of access, excellence and opportunity for future generations.

"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," said Brent Swinton, vice president for philanthropic engagement at Bowie State. "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. When Bowie State thrives, our tight-knit community of alumni, families and partners - across the region and beyond - thrives with us."

The university's academic excellence, commitment to inclusive opportunity and expanding research, and workforce development programs position its graduates to thrive in high-demand fields and serve as catalysts for positive change. Ranked #11 among more than 100 HBCUs nationwide, Bowie State is distinguished by its strengths in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM), including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data analytics, nursing, business, social sciences and fine and performing arts. The university also integrates entrepreneurship and experiential learning across its curriculum, preparing students to become leaders and innovators in a rapidly evolving global workforce.

This historic investment further empowers Bowie State to advance its mission and extend its impact for generations.

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the 'Research College and University' designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State University offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Sabrina Ram, [email protected], 301-860-5148