Mackenzie Scott has made history once again at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania with a $25M unrestricted gift. This transformational investment strengthens student success and the future of HBCUs. 💙✨
This latest contribution marks Mackenzie Scott’s second major investment in Lincoln University, following her historic $20 million gift in 2020. Combined, the two gifts total $45 million, representing the largest single philanthropic contributions in the university’s 171-year history.
A Powerful Endorsement of Lincoln’s Mission and Leadership
Mackenzie Scott’s continued support reflects a strong vote of confidence in Lincoln University’s leadership, fiscal stewardship, and forward momentum. Known for her trust-based philanthropy and advocacy for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Scott has consistently invested in institutions that demonstrate both impact and purpose.
"Lincoln University was founded to break barriers and create opportunity. This investment not only honors our historic mission, but it also accelerates our ability to serve current and future generations of students. It is a powerful affirmation of the lasting value of HBCUs.“
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How the Gift Will Support Students and the Campus Community
Because the $25 million gift is unrestricted, Lincoln University will have the flexibility to direct funds where they are needed most. University leaders plan to use the donation as a cornerstone for a broader campaign focused on student success and institutional sustainability.
Priority areas include:
Student scholarships and financial support
Academic and co-curricular programming
Faculty and staff development
Campus-wide initiatives that enhance student outcomes
This flexibility ensures that the gift will have an immediate and long-term impact across the Lincoln University community.
A Historic Moment for HBCUs and Higher Education
As the nation’s first degree-granting HBCU, Lincoln University has long played a pivotal role in expanding access to higher education for African Americans. Mackenzie Scott’s renewed investment reinforces the importance of supporting institutions that continue to shape leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
The gift also highlights a broader national conversation around equitable funding for HBCUs and the transformational role philanthropy can play in closing opportunity gaps in higher education.
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About Lincoln University of Pennsylvania
Lincoln University of Pennsylvania is the nation’s first degree-granting Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Founded in 1854, the university is dedicated to educating and empowering students to lead their communities and impact the world.
Located in Chester County, Pennsylvania, Lincoln University serves approximately 1,650 undergraduate and graduate students across more than 34 academic programs. The university is recognized for its strong liberal arts foundation, academic excellence, and commitment to social responsibility. Visit Lincoln University
About Mackenzie Scott and Her Philanthropy
Mackenzie Scott is a philanthropist widely recognized for her trust-based approach to giving and her commitment to organizations that create measurable, long-term social impact. Her philanthropy is primarily carried out through private charitable entities and donor-advised foundations that support education, racial equity, public health, economic mobility, and community-driven solutions across the United States.
Since 2019, Scott has donated tens of billions of dollars to nonprofits, colleges and universities, and grassroots organizations, with a focus on leaders and institutions that demonstrate strong governance, financial responsibility, and a clear mission. Her giving model emphasizes unrestricted funding, allowing recipients the flexibility to invest resources where they are most needed.
Scott’s continued support of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) reflects her belief in their leadership, accountability, and essential role in advancing educational equity and opportunity. Her investments have strengthened HBCUs nationwide by expanding access, supporting student success, and reinforcing institutional sustainability.
