Jeff Bezos’ ex-wife donates most of wealth to HBCUs after selling Amazon stake

MacKenzie Scott, the ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, recently appeared in the Forbes’ list of the world’s most generous philanthropists. Scott was recognised for donating more than any individual worldwide since 2012.

Scott, who sold more than half of her Amazon stake after her divorce, signed the Giving Pledge in May 2019, committing to give away her fortune. In her pledge letter, she also drew inspiration from Annie Dillard’s The Writing Life, applying the advice to “spend it now” to her wealth rather than hoarding it. Unlike many wealthy donors who establish large foundations with strict requirements, Scott adopted a different centred on speed, trust and flexibility.

Support for HBCUs and Toni Morrison legacy

As per the report by Fortune, Scott has directed some important donations towards Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Her donations made to these colleges has surpassed $1 billion in contributions. In the year 2022, she gave away $3 million to Howard University for the establishment of Toni Morrison Endowed Chair in Arts and Humanities, honouring her former mentor and thesis advisor at Princeton. Morrison, who called Scott “one of the best students I’ve ever had,” played a pivotal role in her literary and professional journey.

MacKenzie Scott donated $26 billion

According to a report by Fortune, Scott has given away more than $26 billion across 2,700 gifts through her philanthropic organization, Yield Giving. The year 2025 was the biggest year of her donations. Last Scott donated $7.2 billion which is more than both Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos have given in their lifetimes, as per Forbes. This year, Scott also received the title of the third-most generous philanthropist globally, having already given away 46% of her net worth.

Scott believes in trust-based philanthropy

As per the Fortune report, Scott’s style of giving is unconventional. She writes unrestricted checks with no applications, progress reports, or publicity requirements. Philanthropy experts describe her approach as trust-based giving, empowering institutions to use funds freely. “She practices trust-based philanthropy,” said Anne Marie Dougherty, CEO of the Bob Woodruff Foundation.

Scott’s net worth remains above $36 billion

Despite her massive donations, Scott’s net worth remains above $36 billion, buoyed by Amazon’s stock performance. In her Giving Pledge letter, she promised to keep giving until “the safe is empty.” “My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care. But I won’t wait. And I will keep at it until the safe is empty,” she wrote.