North Carolina A&T Receives $20 Million Gift from Anonymous Donor
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is celebrating a monumental $20 million gift from an anonymous donor, marking the second-largest donation in the university’s history. The generous contribution will have an immediate impact on scholarships for students struggling to cover the costs of attending the university for the 2024-25 school year.
Despite being recognized as America’s most affordable doctoral research university, a significant portion of North Carolina A&T’s student body relies on federal aid, particularly the Pell Grant. Many high-achieving students with an average GPA of 3.75 still face financial challenges while pursuing their education.
Chancellor Harold L. Martin Sr. expressed gratitude for the donor’s support, emphasizing the gift’s significance in addressing the rising costs of higher education. The $20 million donation will be allocated towards scholarships, endowed professorships in artificial intelligence, international opportunities, and campus lecture series featuring major thought leaders.
The university’s strategic plan, Preeminence 2030: North Carolina A&T Blueprint, played a crucial role in determining the allocation of funds in collaboration with the donor. School officials highlighted the importance of creating a more equitable and inclusive campus environment with the $15 million designated for scholarships.
With a portion of the donation earmarked for international exchange, retaining professors, and sustaining the Chancellor’s Speaker Series, North Carolina A&T aims to enhance its academic offerings and foster innovation. This transformative gift follows a $45 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in 2020, solidifying the university’s position as a leading institution for higher learning and innovation.
Vice Chancellor of University Advancement Kenneth E. Sigmon Jr. expressed deep gratitude for the extraordinary gift, recognizing its critical role in supporting students, faculty, and programs at North Carolina A&T. The university looks forward to leveraging this generous donation to continue thriving as a hub for education and innovation.