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Philander Smith University Receives Historic $19 Million Gift

11/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

Philander Smith University in Arkansas received a $19 million gift from MacKenzie Scott, billionaire philanthropist, the largest donation in its 147-year history.
The gift is part of more than $700 million Scott has given to historically Black colleges and universities this year.
Dr. Maurice D. Gipson, the university president, called it a significant endorsement of the institution's mission.
Nearly $500 million was allocated by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration for HBCUs and tribal colleges.

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Story summary

Philander Smith University in Arkansas received a $19 million gift from MacKenzie Scott, billionaire philanthropist, the largest donation in its 147-year history.
The gift is part of more than $700 million Scott has given to historically Black colleges and universities this year.
Dr. Maurice D. Gipson, the university president, called it a significant endorsement of the institution's mission.
Nearly $500 million was allocated by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration for HBCUs and tribal colleges.