MacKenzie Scott’s Vision

On June 15, 2021, author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott announced a monumental act of generosity, granting more than $2.7 billion to nearly 300 high-impact organizations across the nation. As one of those honored to receive this transformative support, Cal Poly Pomona received a gift of $40 million, the largest single gift from an individual in the university’s history. This incredible donation joins the list of thousands of others made to Cal Poly Pomona each and every year. For generations, alumni and donors have trusted Cal Poly Pomona with their contributions to make an impact on the lives of our students and community.

In making the announcement, Ms. Scott shed light on her approach to philanthropy and changemaking by sharing the words of the 13th-century Persian poet and mystic Jalaluddin Muhammad Rumi:

“A candle as it diminishes explains,
Gathering more and more is not the way.
Burn, become light and heat and help. Melt.”

Ms. Scott believes in adding value by empowering the organizations she supports. In a symbolic tribute to her vision, she titled her philanthropic efforts “Yield Giving,” drawing on the dual meanings of both realizing an increase and giving up control. In all her philanthropy, Ms. Scott takes a “no strings attached” approach, allowing those on the front lines of challenges to spend the funds as they see fit for the benefit of others. 

In her essay announcing the gifts, Ms. Scott explained why she cedes control to the organizations she supports:

“Because we believe that teams with experience on the front lines of challenges will know best how to put the money to good use, we encouraged them to spend it however they choose. Many reported that this trust significantly increased the impact of the gift. . . . It empowers receivers by making them feel valued and by unlocking their best solutions. Generosity is generative. Sharing makes more.”

You can read the full essay at Seeding by Ceding.

To date, Ms. Scott has provided over $26 billion in philanthropic giving across more than 2,700 gifts. Learn more about Yield Giving.