In a landmark gift that tops every university donation in its 67‑year history, philanthropist MacKenzie Scott pledged $63 million to California State University, Northridge.
CSUN’s Record‑Breaking Gift
The $63 million donation is the second from Scott to CSUN, following a $40 million gift in 2021. With the new contribution, her total giving to the university now exceeds $103 million, making it the largest gift ever received by CSUN.
Scott’s Growing Philanthropic Footprint
Scott disclosed on her website that she has donated $7.1 billion to nonprofits in 2015, a significant rise in her annual giving. She added that she donated $2.6 billion in 2024 and $2.1 billion in 2023. Her donations are noted for having no strings attached and for their size relative to recipients’ budgets.
Details of Her Giving Strategy
Forbes estimates Scott’s net worth at $33 billion, largely from Amazon shares received after her 2019 divorce from Jeff Bezos. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Key Takeaways
- CSUN received its largest donation ever, $63 million, from MacKenzie Scott.
- Scott’s cumulative giving to CSUN now exceeds $103 million.
- Her annual giving totals $2.6 billion in 2024 and $2.1 billion in 2023.

The donation underscores Scott’s continued confidence in CSUN’s mission and her broader commitment to nonprofit philanthropy.

