Feel the Thunder
Overview
Feel the Thunder: Building Community at United Tribes Technical College is a transformational capital campaign made possible by a historic $22 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott—the largest donation in UTTC’s history. This remarkable investment provides a powerful foundation for expanding campus facilities that support student wellness, academic growth, athletics, and community connection.
At the heart of the campaign is a new and expanded gymnasium designed to serve as a hub for athletics, health, and learning, alongside critical campus improvements that enhance the student experience. These projects reflect UTTC’s commitment to Native-led education and creating environments where students can thrive physically, academically, and culturally.
With this extraordinary gift as the anchor, UTTC now invites partners, alumni, and supporters to help complete the vision and be part of a lasting legacy that will benefit generations to come.
MacKenzie Scott Gifts $22 Million to UTTC
Historic gift anchors UTTC’s “Feel the Thunder” campaign for gymnasium and campus improvements
In a landmark investment in American Indian higher education, philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has made a one-time, unrestricted gift of $22 million to United Tribes Technical College (UTTC), the largest donation in the institution’s 56-year history.
The gift comes amid a year of unprecedented philanthropy from Scott, who donated a record $7.2 billion in 2025, with a significant focus on higher education, including Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). According to Yield Giving, Scott’s philanthropy is guided by quiet research to identify organizations advancing opportunity in underserved communities and demonstrating strong leadership, stable finances, measurable outcomes, and sustained impact. Read the full press release.
