Livingstone College Receives $3M Anonymous Gift as Renovation Efforts Gain Momentum

SALISBURY, NC – Livingstone College is starting the new year on a high note with a generous $3 million donation from an anonymous benefactor. This latest contribution builds upon the remarkable $23 million the donor has provided over the past fiscal year, including a standout $10 million gift in July.

During an address to faculty and staff, Livingstone College President Dr. Anthony J. Davis attributed this extraordinary level of philanthropy to the collective dedication of the college community.

“We don’t receive philanthropy at this level because of a president making an eloquent speech,” Dr. Davis remarked. “This happens because all of you have been committed to this miracle approach. It’s because of the work that you’re doing, and it’s making us the fastest-growing HBCU in North Carolina.”

Renovations and Strategic Growth

The anonymous donation will fund much-needed renovations on campus, including upgrades to the cafeteria and multiple residence halls, to accommodate the college’s growing student body. Dr. Davis noted that Livingstone achieved an impressive 13% enrollment increase this year, outpacing other public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the state.

“Our growth means the world is watching,” Dr. Davis said. “People are starting to notice—‘Livingstone? They’re getting philanthropic contributions like Morehouse and Spelman.’ We are. It’s because of the work that you’re doing.”

Despite the excitement surrounding this growth, Dr. Davis emphasized the importance of sustainability. “When we talk about slow, controlled growth, it’s about capacity. We could not function with more than 1,200 students right now, physically on campus. Right now, we’re at 941. We’re almost at capacity.”

A Promising Future

As Livingstone College continues progressing with its capital renovation projects and enrollment strategies, its trajectory remains bright. The combination of record-breaking donations and thoughtful planning positions Livingstone as a rising leader among HBCUs, attracting national attention and admiration.

“This is our moment,” Dr. Davis affirmed. “With your dedication and the support we’ve received, the possibilities are limitless.”

Photo courtesy of Livingstone College