JCSU Gets $35M from Duke Endowment

Johnson C. Smith University today received the largest charitable grant in its history - $35 million dollars from The Duke Endowment. The money will cover nearly all of the cost to construct a new science center at the historically black university, as well as student scholarships and residence hall renovations. University President Ronald Carter says the gift will aid in the school's plans for transformation. "oday, we have a strong wind beneath our wings," said Carter, in accepting the grant. "Today, we can say, 'We can do it!'" Carter aims to improve the caliber and graduation rates of students at JCSU and strengthen the school's science and technology program. Just over 1,500 students are enrolled at the campus west of Uptown Charlotte. The university has launched a $185 million fundraising campaign to build new facilities and update aging buildings on the historic campus. The Duke Endowment's $35 million grant is a major boost in that effort.