Basketball legend Michael Jordan has donated $10 million to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s School of Social Work in honour of his mother, Deloris P. Jordan, recognising her lifelong commitment to supporting children, families and communities.
Announced on October 5, 2026, the donation is the largest single gift in the school’s history. The contribution will strengthen the university’s social work programmes, expand research and community initiatives, and provide financial support for students pursuing careers in social work.
“My mother has always believed in the power of helping children, families and communities, and she has spent her life putting that belief into action,” Jordan said in a statement released by the university. He added that honouring her through the donation was deeply meaningful to him and his family.
A Lasting Tribute to Deloris Jordan
The donation will fund the expansion of UNC’s Global Social Development Innovations Center, which will be renamed the Deloris P. Jordan Global Social Development Innovations Center in recognition of her impact.
The gift will also support the Jordan Institute for Families, an initiative established by Michael Jordan and his family in 1996 to help promote safe, stable and nurturing family environments. Its work includes research and initiatives focused on maternal health, caregiving, mental health, economic support and child and family well-being.
Deloris Jordan has maintained a longstanding relationship with the university and has dedicated much of her life to improving outcomes for children and families. The new centre bearing her name is intended to extend that work beyond North Carolina through research, partnerships and community-led programmes.
Speaking about the donation, Deloris Jordan said she was honoured that the investment would support the next generation of social workers and expand opportunities for those preparing to serve others.
Scholarships for the Next Generation of Social Workers
Beyond research and community programmes, the donation will establish the Jordan Family Scholars programme, which will assist Master of Social Work students facing financial barriers to graduate education.
Ten inaugural scholars will each receive a $12,500 scholarship, helping reduce the cost of postgraduate study and making it easier for students to enter a profession that supports individuals and families through difficult circumstances.
UNC officials described the contribution as an investment in both education and the wider social work workforce. The funding is expected to help strengthen services and initiatives supporting communities across North Carolina and internationally.
Michael Jordan’s Continued Connection to UNC
Jordan’s donation also reflects his enduring connection to the university. He played for the North Carolina Tar Heels from 1981 to 1984, including his memorable game-winning shot in the 1982 NCAA championship game. He graduated from UNC in 1986.
Although widely recognised for his six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls and his impact on global basketball culture, Jordan has also supported initiatives connected to education and family well-being through his philanthropic work.
The $10 million commitment adds to that legacy while placing his mother’s values at the centre of the project.
Through the expanded research centre, family initiatives and scholarships, the gift aims to help future social workers support vulnerable communities and create opportunities for children and families. For Jordan, it is also a personal tribute to the woman whose commitment to helping others helped shape his own values.
