Huston-Tillotson University Receives Largest-Ever Single Gift to an HBCU: $150 Million from the Moody Foundation

Huston-Tillotson University (HT) has received a groundbreaking $150 million donation from The Moody Foundation, the largest single gift ever given to a Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

Announced during the university’s Fall Opening Convocation, the gift marks a historic milestone in HT’s 150-year legacy as Austin’s first institution of higher education and signals a transformative new era for the university.

“This gift is a testament to faith, prayer, and the genuine belief in the goodness of others,” said Dr. Melva K. Wallace, President and CEO. “It will completely transform Huston-Tillotson and set us up for success for another 150 years.”

The nine-figure donation will be distributed over the next decade and will fund major campus enhancements—revamped academic spaces, new student housing, scholarships, and endowments—as well as strategic support for marketing and development to help HT expand its national reach.

“We believe in the vision of Huston-Tillotson and the extraordinary leadership of Dr. Wallace,” said Ross Moody, Trustee of The Moody Foundation. “This gift is a catalyst for transformation.”

With more than 50 years of prior support, this donation deepens the Moody Foundation’s long-standing relationship with HT and continues its $1 billion pledge to support education in Texas by 2035.

Founded in 1875, Huston-Tillotson is a vital part of East Austin’s educational and cultural landscape and stands as the third-oldest business in the city. With this record-setting gift, HT is now positioned as a national leader among HBCUs and a model for 21st-century higher education.

“This is a declaration of belief in who we are and what we can become,” said Rev. Dr. Vanessa Monroe, Board Chair.