The donation will accelerate the development of new diagnostic tools, expand patient access to clinical trials led by Knight Cancer Institute researchers, and strengthen support services including nutritional counseling, psychological assistance, financial guidance, and symptom management.
Cancer research leader and former institute CEO Dr. Brian Druker said the contribution will “transform the way we care for patients while continuing to advance innovative treatments.” According to The Wall Street Journal, the $2 billion gift is expected to nearly double the size of the cancer center.
Previously, the largest donation to a U.S. educational institution had been Michael Bloomberg’s $1.8 billion gift to Johns Hopkins University to fund financial aid.
Knight—whose net worth is estimated at $35.4 billion—is widely known for his major philanthropic support of universities and academic organizations. The Knights rank among Forbes’ most generous American philanthropists of 2025, with lifetime giving reaching $3.98 billion.
