The Blackfeet Community College (BFCC) board of trustees has invested a significant portion—$884,764.44—of their philanthropic gift from MacKenzie Scott to supporting the college’s employees and addressing the increasing cost-of-living challenges facing working families throughout the Blackfeet Nation and the region.

The investment reflects a commitment to the people who make BFCC’s mission possible every day. Faculty, staff, and administrators play a critical role in providing educational opportunities, workforce development, cultural preservation, and community services that strengthen the Blackfeet Nation and serve the broader community. BFCC board of trustees chair, Dana Pemberton, stated, “Our faculty and staff are the heart of Blackfeet Community College. By dedicating these funds to employee support, we are investing directly in the mission, values, and future of the institution and ensuring that our employees have the stability they need to continue serving our students and community.”

Like many rural and tribal communities across the country, the Blackfeet reservation continues to experience rising costs associated with housing, food, transportation, utilities, and other essential household expenses. This gift will help the college invest directly in its workforce, ensuring that BFCC remains a strong and sustainable employer while continuing to attract and retain dedicated professionals committed to serving students from the “universal community” that defines the college’s service area.

“An institution is only as strong as its people,” said BFCC President Brad Hall. “This generous investment recognizes the contributions of our employees and provides meaningful support during a time when many families are facing increased financial pressures. By investing in our workforce, we are investing in student success, institutional stability, and the future of the Blackfeet Nation.”

The decision aligns with BFCC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, improve employee retention, and create a workplace environment that values and supports those who serve the college’s students and community. College leadership has worked closely with employee governance bodies and investment professionals to ensure the unrestricted funds are utilized in a manner that maximizes their impact for employees while maintaining fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability.

The college continues to extend its sincere gratitude to MacKenzie Scott for recognizing the importance of investing in the people who advance BFCC’s mission and for supporting the long-term well-being of the institution and its employees.