Hoyer Applauds $50M Donation to HBCU
Congressman Steny H. Hoyer delivered remarks on the House floor regarding a $50 million unrestricted gift to Bowie State University from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
“Mr. Speaker, I rise to note an extraordinary act of patriotism of one of our fellow citizens. I rise today to thank MacKenzie Scott, formerly the wife of Jeff Bezos, for donating $50 million to Bowie State University, the largest single contribution in the school’s history.
“Bowie State University is not only Maryland’s oldest HBCU, it is one of our state’s finest higher education institutions, period. MacKenzie Scott’s generous gift will help make Bowie State University even more affordable and support the groundbreaking research students produce every day. With her historic donations to Bowie State University, Morgan State University, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, MacKenzie has proven herself to be an honorary Marylander, an American who cares about investing in our future. An American who understands the importance – critical importance – of education in our state, in our nation, and for our kids and for our future. Thank you, MacKenzie Scott.”
The university announced the “transformative $50 million unrestricted gift” last month, saying it is 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,” according to a BSU news release.
“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.”
Congressman Hoyer is chair of the Regional Leadership Council.
For more information about Rep. Steny H. Hoyer, visit his Leader member page.
