New Magnolia Endowment Expands College Access for Central Texas Students

April 29, 2026

McLennan Community College Foundation and Magnolia logos separated by a vertical line.

McLennan Community College is excited to increase scholarship opportunities through the Magnolia Scholarship Endowment, established by Chip and Joanna Gaines and Magnolia. The new fund, housed at the MCC Foundation, will begin this fall and is expected to support more than 50 Central Texas students annually by helping remove financial barriers to pursuing college and career training.

This scholarship carries special significance for Joanna Gaines, who began her academic journey at MCC–making this investment a full-circle moment that opens doors for others following a similar path.

The scholarship will provide meaningful financial support to MCC students, particularly those facing economic challenges, enabling them to focus on their academic and career goals without being overburdened by tuition costs.

“This investment will expand access to more students,” said MCC President Dr. Johnette McKown. “We are proud of the impact Chip and Joanna Gaines have made in our community, and grateful for their commitment to students here, where Joanna began her journey.”

“Education has the power to transform lives,” said Chip and Joanna Gaines. “We’re honored to partner with McLennan Community College to help create opportunities for students to pursue their passions and chase after their dreams.”

Chip and Joanna Gaines, founders of Magnolia, have long been dedicated to community development and creating opportunities for individuals and families to thrive. This scholarship initiative builds on that commitment by directly supporting students as they take meaningful steps toward their futures. This investment underscores a shared belief between MCC and Magnolia: when students are supported, entire communities benefit.

The Magnolia Scholarship Endowment will operate within the MCC Foundation, which awards more than 800 scholarships each year, with opportunities based on a variety of criteria, including financial need, academic achievement, field of study, etc. For the 2025–2026 academic year, the Foundation awarded $851,269 in scholarships.

Scholarship applications open May 1st. For more information about the scholarship and how to apply, visit www.mclennan.edu/foundation.