The
Hmong American Peace Academy (HAPA) announced Monday that it has received a $3 million donation from philanthropist and author MacKenzie Scott – the school’s largest donation to date.
The funds will be used to advance HAPA's mission of providing students with rigorous academics, character development and Hmong cultural values as they prepare for future higher education opportunities and careers, said the school's media release.
“My heart is filled with tremendous gratitude for our abundant blessings including this most generous gift,” said Chris Her-Xiong, HAPA’s founder and chief executive officer, in a media release. “What drives us forward is the relentless focus we share in building a community of peace builders and lifelong learners who are transforming lives and leading the way out of poverty into a prosperous life of service. This gift continues the momentum that we have built to grow our reach and impact in the community.”
“All that HAPA has and will achieve is the result of hard work and deliberate planning,” added Jason Handal, chair of the HAPA board of directors. “This incredible gift is both validation of our mission and impact, as well as a catalyst to help more students gain the knowledge and self determination to fully realize the blessings of freedom and prosperity their parents and grandparents fought so hard to achieve.”
The gift is part of Scott’s latest effort to support organizations working with underserved communities. Scott, the ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has donated nearly $2 billion to 343 organizations over the last seven months,
she announced on Medium Nov. 14.
Founded in 2004, HAPA serves over 1,800 K4-12 students, 82% of whom are economically disadvantaged. When compared to all schools in Wisconsin, HAPA’s academic performance exceeds expectations, according to the
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.
