Voorhees University in Denmark, South Carolina, has received a major financial boost that university officials say will support key programs and operations.

According to a press release, philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has donated $19 million to the historically Black university, marking the largest gift in its 128-year history since its founding in 1897. The funds will support endowment growth, student recruitment and retention, scholarships, and campus maintenance.

Since 2020, Voorhees University has reached notable milestones, including its elevation from college to university status and the expansion of its academic offerings to include master’s and doctoral degree programs. As the press release notes, it’s also the only HBCU in the country authorized to approve charter schools, demonstrating its commitment to education from early learning through advanced degrees.

“This generous gift from Ms. MacKenzie Scott is a resounding affirmation of the extraordinary work being done at Voorhees University,” Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, the university’s president and CEO, said in the press release.

“It strengthens our ability to fulfill our vision as a leading faith-based, career-focused institution. These funds will allow us to build on our momentum — supporting our students, expanding our reach, and securing Voorhees’ future for generations to come,” Dr. Hopkins continued.

The donation aligns with Voorhees University’s strategic plan which emphasizes sustainability and long-term growth.

David Miller, chair of the Voorhees University Board of Trustees and class of 1984 alumnus, said the donation reflects the contributions of the university community.

“This extraordinary contribution validates the collective efforts of our students, faculty, alumni, community, and leadership,” Miller said. “It also recognizes Voorhees University as a model of innovation and resilience among HBCUs. We are deeply grateful to Ms. Scott for her confidence in our mission and her belief in the power of education to change lives.”

According to the university, the gift follows Scott’s $4 million donation in 2020, made shortly before Dr. Hopkins became president.

Voorhees University joins other HBCUs that have received donations from Scott, whose philanthropy focuses on racial inequities in education and access to opportunity. Her previous gifts include $80 million to Howard University, $63 million to Morgan State University, and $38 million to Spelman College, as AFROTECH™ previously reported.

Scott’s donations are unrestricted, allowing institutions to decide how to use the funds. According to a 2025 study published by the Center for Effective Philanthropy, since 2019, Scott has donated more than $19 billion to over 2,000 organizations, many serving underrepresented communities.