What's Happening?
Phil and Penny Knight have made a significant philanthropic contribution by pledging $2 billion to the Oregon Health & Science University’s Knight Cancer Institute. This donation is the largest charitable
gift made by an American in 2025, more than doubling the second-largest donation of $746.7 million by Warren Buffett to the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation. The Knights' donation is intended to fund revolutionary advances in cancer care. This pledge is also considered the largest gift to higher education in history, surpassing Michael Bloomberg's $1.8 billion donation to Johns Hopkins in 2018. The Knight family has a history of substantial donations, including previous contributions to OHSU, the University of Oregon, and Stanford University.
Why It's Important?
The Knights' donation is poised to have a transformative impact on cancer research and treatment, potentially leading to groundbreaking advancements in the field. This substantial financial support underscores the importance of private philanthropy in advancing medical research and education. The donation not only elevates the Knight Cancer Institute's capabilities but also sets a precedent for future philanthropic efforts in higher education and healthcare. The Knights' continued support of educational and medical institutions highlights the critical role of private funding in driving innovation and progress in these sectors.
