In light of recent news that Oprah Winfrey is stepping down from her position on the WeightWatchers board, the media mogul continues to use its impact to uplift the community, according to Variety.
Per to a press release shared with AFROTECH™, Winfrey donated her shares of company stock to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) in Washington, DC.
“As our largest donor, Oprah Winfrey is, without a doubt, an essential champion of this museum,” said Kevin Young, the Andrew W. Mellon director of the NMAAHC. “Her legacy as a culture icon and supporter is a testament to her steadfast commitment to inspiring the next generation of philanthropists and preserving Black history.”
No stranger to putting her support behind the entity, Winfrey made an initial financial pledge to the museum idea in 2007.
What’s more, in 2013, per a report by NPR, after she pledged millions of dollars to help break ground to construct the building that now sits on the National Mall, the NMAAHC named a theater in her honor, The Oprah Winfrey Theater, when it officially opened its doors in 2015.
While it isn’t noted how much the recent donation was worth, the NMAAHC says Winfrey’s “recent contribution reflects her continued commitment to supporting the advancement and preservation of African American history and culture.”
The NMAAHC stated in an official statement, “The museum will highlight through its platforms Winfrey’s contributions to the country not only as a Black female entrepreneur, journalist, entertainer, and philanthropist but also as an individual committed to uplifting the stories of African Americans. She has left an indelible mark on Black history using her influential platform to break barriers and amplify diverse voices.”
The latest move continues Winfrey’s dedication to her community. As previously reported by AFROTECH™, the billionaire has donated to several causes, including scholarships for young students to attend the schools of their dreams.
