The University of California, Merced has received a $38 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, marking the largest philanthropic contribution in the university’s history. This is Scott’s second major gift to UC Merced, following a $20 million donation in 2021 that supported student services, research development, and campus expansion.
According to the university, the new funding will be used to further its mission of supporting world-changing research and expanding facilities for teaching and discovery. The investment will also help students from diverse backgrounds, many of whom are first-generation college attendees.
Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz commented on the significance of the gift: “This remarkable act of generosity affirms what we know to be true – UC Merced is changing lives, uplifting families, and reshaping what is possible for California and beyond. We are profoundly grateful for Ms. Scott’s continued trust in our mission and for her belief in our faculty, students and the extraordinary promise of higher education.”
The funds will support several initiatives at UC Merced:
– Programs aimed at increasing student success and reducing financial barriers.
– Research opportunities for faculty and experiential learning programs.
– Capital projects that expand research capacity and improve infrastructure for a growing student population.
The donation comes as UC Merced advances its first comprehensive fundraising campaign, Boldly Forward. The campaign aims to generate new opportunities for students, faculty, and the Central Valley community while enhancing the university’s position among public R1 research institutions.
UC President James B. Milliken said: “UC Merced is a powerful example of what public higher education can achieve when access and excellence move hand in hand. Ms. Scott’s landmark gift will strengthen the university’s ability to open doors, change lives and expand opportunity across the Central Valley and beyond. We are deeply grateful for her leadership and generosity.”
