Alabama State University has received the largest single donation in its 158-year history: a $38 million unrestricted gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. The transformative donation represents a significant investment in the University’s long-term growth and an extraordinary vote of confidence in its mission, leadership, and vision for innovation.
The contribution will allow Alabama State University (ASU) to strategically advance key priorities, including strengthening its endowment, enhancing student success programs, expanding research and technology infrastructure, and deepening community engagement in Montgomery and beyond.
ASU President Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr. described the moment as one of historic significance for the institution, noting that the gift highlights the University’s growing recognition as a center of academic excellence and social impact. He said Scott’s contribution affirms ASU’s place among the nation’s most dynamic historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), while accelerating its efforts to shape the future of higher education in the South and nationwide.
The donation, made through Scott’s philanthropic foundation, was the result of a private and highly selective process that identifies institutions making measurable progress in driving positive social change. ASU had no prior indication it was being considered, according to Ross, who noted that the University’s success in executing its Focus 2030 Strategic Plan — centered on academic excellence, student achievement, and community advancement — aligns closely with the foundation’s mission.
The funding arrives as ASU continues to expand its national profile through initiatives in technology, global education, and civic engagement. University officials plan to invest the resources in areas that will yield long-term returns for students and the wider community, positioning ASU as an even stronger leader among HBCUs.
Dr. Ross emphasized that this gift marks not only a recognition of past accomplishments but also a powerful catalyst for future transformation.
KEY QUOTES:
“We are deeply grateful to MacKenzie Scott for her unprecedented generosity in supporting the vision of Alabama State University. The message here is clear: the work being done at this University is being held in high regard. This investment allows us to continue to make a significant impact as an institution of higher learning now and for generations to come. This is a history-making moment at the place where history is made.”
“We’ve just been doing the work — staying true to our mission, our students, and our community. You never know who’s watching, and to be recognized in this way reminds us that our efforts matter. Alabama State University’s impact is reaching farther than we sometimes realize.”
“Her gift not only honors ASU’s legacy as a leading historically Black university, but it also underscores our growing recognition as a forward-thinking institution, setting the pace for innovation and transformation in the South and across the nation.”
“This is a game changer. Ms. Scott’s generous gift enhances Alabama State University’s ability to continue to compete, continue to lead, and to be the example of what’s possible when vision, purpose, and progress align. This investment will allow us to build upon our strategic priorities, strengthen our academic and research capacity, and most importantly, empower our students to soar.”
“This gift is transformative. It further reinforces Alabama State University’s commitment to innovation and excellence, setting the pace for the future.”
Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr., President, Alabama State University
