Alabama State University President Quinton T. Ross, Jr. announced the university has received a $38 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

Here is an excerpt from President Ross’ post:

“Today marks a defining moment in the history of Alabama State University. I am filled with immense gratitude and pround to announce that Alabama State University has received the largest single donation in its 158-year history. Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has donated an extraordinary $38 million gift to our great University.”

Scott is the ex-wife of Amazon co-founder Jeff Bezos. In 2024, she gave over $640 million to 361 small nonprofits nationwide, including the First Light homeless shelter in Birmingham and ACLU Alabama.

The Alabama State gift comes two days after the conclusion of another successful Magic City Classic week. The title sponsor of this year’s festivities was Amazon.

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