MacKenzie Scott, formerly MacKenzie Bezos, is an American novelist, philanthropist, and activist. Born MacKenzie Tuttle in 1970, she is perhaps most widely recognized for her former marriage to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. However, her accomplishments extend far beyond this association.
Scott is a graduate of Princeton University, where she studied under Nobel laureate Toni Morrison. Morrison reportedly described her as one of her best students. This early academic success paved the way for her pursuit of a writing career. She is the author of two novels, “The Testing of Luther Albright” (2005), which won an American Book Award, and “Traps” (2013). Her writing explores themes of family, identity, and the complexities of human relationships, showcasing a thoughtful and nuanced perspective.
While her literary endeavors are significant, Scott’s recent prominence stems largely from her commitment to philanthropy. Following her divorce from Jeff Bezos in 2019, she received a substantial settlement, which she has pledged to donate strategically and effectively. She signed the Giving Pledge, a commitment by wealthy individuals and families to dedicate the majority of their wealth to philanthropic causes.
Scott’s philanthropic approach is notable for its focus on supporting organizations working to address systemic inequities. Rather than imposing specific requirements or restrictions, she prioritizes trusting the expertise and judgment of the organizations she funds. She provides large, unrestricted grants to non-profits working in areas such as racial equity, LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, climate change, and public health. This approach allows these organizations the flexibility to use the funds where they are most needed, adapting to evolving needs and opportunities.
Her donations have been remarkable in their scale and speed. Scott has given away billions of dollars in a relatively short period, impacting hundreds of organizations across the United States and beyond. This rapid deployment of capital has been praised for its potential to drive significant social change. Unlike traditional philanthropy, which often involves lengthy application processes and restrictive grant terms, Scott’s approach is designed to empower organizations already on the ground doing impactful work.
Beyond her philanthropic contributions, MacKenzie Scott remains a private individual, largely avoiding media attention. She is dedicated to using her resources to create a more just and equitable world, and her actions speak volumes about her commitment to this goal. Her approach to giving is reshaping the landscape of modern philanthropy, challenging conventional practices and inspiring others to consider more impactful and equitable ways to contribute to society.