Oseola McCarty (1908-1999), As a young girl growing up in Mississippi, she dreamed of becoming a nurse because she wanted to help people. McCarty, however, had to drop out of school in the sixth grade to take care of her family. So, instead of becoming a nurse, she washed people's clothes all of her life. She lived a frugal life, saved what she could from the little money she made, and late in her life, donated $ 250,000 to the University of Southern Mississippi to provide scholarships for deserving students. Matching contributions from others that heard about McCarty's donation have increased the scholarship fund to $340,000. McCarty represents the millionaire next door phenomenon and a tradition within African-American philanthropy, people who (later in life) unassumingly donate their substantial life savings to charities. |
The Gift |
Oseola McCarty |
For more information regarding Miss McCarty, contact: The University of Southern Mississippi Department of Marketing and Public Relations Box 5016 Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39406-5016 Phone: (601) 266-4491 Fax: (601) 266-5347 |
If you are interested in contributing to the Oseola McCarty Scholarship Fund you may do so by sending your donation to: Oseola McCarty Scholarship Southern Miss Foundation Box 10026 Hattiesburg, MS 39406 |
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Oseola McCarty Donation
An Inspiration "Since I first read of The Gift, I have been inspired by her humility and uncomplicated view of the way things should be. I hope her onward journey is full of love and light." Susan Sharp Sneads Ferry, NC |
