Philander Smith University has received a $19 million unrestricted gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, marking the school's largest single contribution in its 147-year history.

The donation to the historically black university in Little Rock will help it advance its mission of educating academically accomplished students who are grounded as advocates for social justice, according to a media release. It will also allow university leadership and its Board of Trustees to invest in other priorities including scholarships, academic innovation, infrastructure and long-term financial sustainability, the release stated.

Philander Smith President and CEO Maurice D. Gipson said the university is "deeply grateful" for the donation.

"This historic investment affirms the strength, potential, a

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