BRIMLEY, MI – A large, unrestricted donation from a famous philanthropist is a “game-changer” for this college in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, according to a news release.

Bay Mills Community College is the beneficiary of a $9 million donation from the Mackenzie Scott Foundation, the Bay Mills Indian Community announced. Officials have already announced plans to use the money for new programs and infrastructure, including a new health facility.

“It’s a game-changer that will shape our future in remarkable ways,” said BMCC President Dr. Duane Bedell.

Mackenzie Scott – a novelist, contributor to the development of Amazon and former spouse of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos – signed her Giving Pledge in 2019. She vowed to give away most of her wealth to charitable causes over her lifetime or after her death.

Scott’s 2025 donations focused on educational institutions impacted by federal cuts, the release said. A White House recommendation to reduce the Bureau of Indian Education’s college funding from $183 million to $22 million left tribal colleges “uneasy about their future,” although the cut was not approved.

“This donation will be truly transformative for Bay Mills Community College, creating opportunities that will ripple through our students’ lives and the communities we proudly serve,” Bedell said.