Written by: Kawana McGough, Division of Development and Alumni Engagement
President Dr. Mark A. Brown ‘86 announces $300 million comprehensive fundraising initiative at Investiture Gala
TUSKEGEE, AL — On the heels of the historic investiture of Dr. Mark A. Brown ’86 as Tuskegee University’s 10th president and chief executive officer, and first alumnus to lead the institution, university leaders made history once again by announcing the institution will embark on a $300 million comprehensive campaign. In front of more than 300 guests attending the Investiture Gala at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort and Spa, Dr. Brown unveiled the details of the visionary initiative.
“I am 100% dedicated to the continued advancement of Tuskegee University, said Dr. Brown ’86. “It is my great pleasure to announce to you the official launch of The Campaign for Tuskegee University, entitled Solving the World’s Most Complex Problems. This audacious campaign, now in its public phase as of this moment, is set to raise $300 million in support of our institution. And we can, and we will, do it,” said Dr. Brown.
President Brown and First Lady Gwendolyn Jackson Brown then announced their personal gift of $100,000 — the first gift in the public phase of the campaign.
The Campaign for Tuskegee University is the most ambitious campaign the 144-year-old historically black institution has embarked upon. Fueled by the visionary leadership of Dr. Brown, coupled with a renewed uptick in alumni, corporate and community engagement, university leaders say the time is right to endorse this major campaign.
“The Board of Trustees is fully committed to this mission, pledging both our contributions and the strength of our networks to help secure the partnerships and resources necessary for Tuskegee to thrive during this renaissance period under Dr. Brown’s leadership,” said Norma B. Clayton, chairwoman of the University’s Board of Trustees.
“Tuskegee’s legacy is strong, and our future depends on all of us. I am proud to share that our Board of Trustees is fully dedicated—not only through personal contributions, but also by leveraging our networks and connections to help grow the resources and partnerships that power Tuskegee during this renaissance period under Dr. Brown’s leadership,” said Barron Witherspoon ’85, chair of the development committee, Board of Trustees.
“The Campaign for Tuskegee University speaks directly to this institution’s mission to educate people who will serve and empower their communities, and ultimately transform the world,” said Dr. A.L. Fleming, Tuskegee’s Vice President of Development and Alumni Engagement. “As the higher education landscape and the workforce become more competitive, it’s now more important than ever that we make certain our graduates are world-ready. This campaign will provide the financial support needed to do that,” Fleming said.
Saturday’s campaign announcement at the Investiture Gala garnered hundreds of initial contributions from alumni and supporters. Star-studded messages of support were a part of the event as guests watched special video messages from notable alumni and partners such as NBA Legend and entrepreneur Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Philanthropist Robert F. Smith, Good Morning America Anchor Robin Roberts, whose father was a member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, and Grammy-award winning recording artist and Tuskegee alumnus, Lionel Richie ‘74. Richie, the honorary chair of the Investiture Gala, credits Tuskegee as the foundation for his success in the music industry.
“Dr. Brown, congratulations to you and the Tuskegee family, on launching the historic Campaign for Tuskegee University,” said Richie in his recorded message to gala attendees. “Walking these halls as a student shaped my life and set me on the path to an amazing music career I could only dream of. Tuskegee gave me my foundation. My professors, my mentors, and my friends, who became family as time went on, and lessons that stayed with me forever.” Richie said.
Students also expressed enthusiasm for the campaign’s focus on academic success and debt relief.
“Hearing the plans that will shape our future made me proud as a student to see progress unfolding before us, said Carrington Thompson, student trustee and junior senior plant and soil science major from Stuttgart, Arkansas. “I’m especially encouraged by President Brown’s commitment to helping students graduate without the burden of debt. This is truly the Tuskegee Renaissance, and I’m grateful to be part of this moment of renewal.”
One of the key pillars of the Campaign is devoted to the academic success of Tuskegee students, including scholarships, student success initiatives, and workforce preparation. That’s welcomed news for new and existing students.
Prior to the campaign announcement, guests enjoyed dinner, dancing, and a performance by legendary R&B Soul group, The O’Jays.
About “The Campaign for Tuskegee University: Solving the World’s Most Complex Problems”
The Campaign for Tuskegee University, a comprehensive campaign, began its quiet phase in 2020 and has already raised more than $132 million toward its historic $300 million goal (with approximately $168 million remaining). It is powered by the collective generosity of alumni, corporate and foundation partners, Eminent Associates, parents, students, faculty, and friends of the University. With a campaign-long goal of achieving a 33% campaign alumni giving rate by June 30, 2030, Tuskegee has already reached a 16.16% cumulative campaign alumni giving rate — a powerful signal of the growing commitment across its alumni community. The Campaign for Tuskegee University centers on four strategic pillars that will shape the University’s future:
- Academic Excellence and Workforce Preparation – Recruiting and retaining outstanding faculty, investing in research, and expanding hands-on learning to prepare students for 21st-century careers.
- Campus Re-Envisioning and Revitalization – Modernizing classrooms, labs, residence halls, and building new facilities, while safeguarding Tuskegee’s historic legacy.
- Community – Expanding scholarships, mentorship, wellness, and career readiness programs that empower students and strengthen alumni connections.
- Sustainability – Growing the endowment, streamlining operations, and modeling responsible citizenship to secure Tuskegee’s long-term future.
© 2025 Tuskegee University
Photos from Investiture Weekend:
