Alabama A&M University (AAMU) just received the largest individual donation in its institution's history with a $2.2 million gift from an anonymous donor.

The actual donation totals $2,187,518.75, which twice reflects the university’s founding in 1875, according to News 19.

Dr. Andrew Hugine, Jr., president of the university, spoke about the historic moment in the life of the school.

“This is the most significant and impactful gift in the history of Alabama A&M University,” said President Andrew Hugine, Jr. “When one of our very own alumni makes such a substantial investment in the institution, it serves as affirmation that the university has made significant progress and that it continues to move in the right direction.”

According to the officials of the university, $1 million will support the school’s athletic programs and the remaining funds will support ongoing university initiatives.

“This gift is personal to me,” the anonymous donor’s statement read. “This is my university, and it has afforded me opportunities beyond what I could have ever imagined.”

“It has been my life’s mission to make a sizeable investment in my alma mater prior to President Hugine’s retirement and under the advancement leadership of Dr. Archie Tucker, who has been a tremendous asset to the university,” the donor’s continued. “As a graduate, I personally know of several other alumni who can make a similar gift, and I challenge them to do the same,” the donor concluded.

Bryan Hicks, Director of Athletics, added that the gift is also “the largest private investment in the history of AAMU Athletics.”

“The gift will enable our athletic programs to be more competitive, while also enhancing the student-athlete experience,” Hicks said. “This certainly builds on the recent accomplishments of being Tennis and Football SWAC Champions, along with being the reigning Black College Football National Champs.”

Recently, several initiatives have been instituted to preserve and expand the legacy of HBCUs including President Joe Biden’s recently proposed bill to make tuition at the schools more affordable.According to the United Negro College Fund, HBCUs make up only 3% of America’s colleges and universities but they produce 20% of the country’s Black graduates.