WILBURTON, Oklahoma – Eastern Oklahoma State College has received an unprecedented $16 million unrestricted gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott through her foundation, Yield Giving. This donation marks the largest single donation in the college’s more than 117-year history.

The gift will be stewarded by the Eastern Oklahoma State College Development Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports student success and campus priorities.

Eastern President Dr. Randy Harp said Scott’s generosity affirms the college’s longstanding commitment to the region.

“This is truly a historic moment and will be transformational for Eastern,” Harp said. “MacKenzie Scott’s investment demonstrates tremendous confidence in our mission and in the life-changing opportunities we provide for students. This gift will allow us to think bigger, act faster and expand the ways we serve Southeast Oklahoma for decades to come.”

Dr. Cathy Cogburn, Executive Director of the Eastern Oklahoma State College Development Foundation, said the Foundation is honored to steward a gift of this magnitude.

“This extraordinary and truly transformational gift from MacKenzie Scott's Yield Giving Organization will change lives for generations,” Cogburn said. “At Eastern Oklahoma State College, our mission is to put students first, and this investment empowers us to expand opportunities, remove barriers, and move mountains for those we serve. We are honored and humbled by this incredible vote of confidence from Ms. Scott.”

Because the donation is unrestricted, the Foundation will work with college administration to determine how best to direct the funds in alignment with Eastern’s mission and strategic priorities. Foundation leaders emphasized that decisions will be guided by a long-term view of student success, workforce development and regional impact.

Across the nation, Scott has become a significant supporter of higher education, particularly among institutions that serve rural regions and large numbers of first-generation, low-income or underrepresented students. Her unrestricted gifts through Yield Giving empower colleges to respond quickly to emerging needs and high-impact initiatives.

As the Foundation begins its planning process, Eastern officials noted that the gift will complement ongoing fundraising efforts that support scholarships, academic programs and campus development.

“Eastern has always relied on the generosity of alumni, partners and community members,” Harp said. “This gift strengthens that work and ensures that every future contribution continues to play a vital role in changing lives.”

Eastern serves more than 1,200 students across Southeast Oklahoma and generates approximately $11 in economic impact for every $1 invested by the state. The college’s mission centers on expanding access, strengthening workforce pathways and supporting students of all backgrounds in achieving their personal and professional goals.

Further details about the gift and its long-term impact will be shared as the Foundation’s planning moves forward.

For more information about Eastern or giving to the EOSC Development Foundation, please visit eosc.edu.