Wealthy couple donates $20 million to Princeton after feeling ignored by the university, according to Padres co-owner Kwanza Jones.

Kwanza Jones recently shared her experience of trying to get her alma mater, Princeton University, to pay attention to her interest in funding a major campus project. Despite multiple attempts to reach out, Jones received no response from the university. It wasn't until she and her husband, José E.

Feliciano, donated $20 million to the institution that they finally received a reply. According to Princeton, the donation made by Jones and Feliciano in 2020 was the largest gift to date by Black and Latino donors. It was intended to support the university's efforts to increase diversity and inclusivity for undergraduate students.

As a result, two dormitories were built and named after the couple, who are both alumni of the university. Jones reflected on the experience, highlighting how institutions can underestimate individuals who have built their wealth outside of traditional networks or do not openly boast about their success. She stated that the donation of $20 million was simply to receive a response from Princeton.

However, the impact of Jones and Feliciano's donation goes beyond just getting the university's attention. In fact, earlier this month, the couple made history as the first Black woman to own a Major League Baseball team, the San Diego Padres. This marks a significant moment in MLB history, with the franchise being sold for a record-breaking $3.9 billion.

Feliciano now serves as the Padres' designated control person, while both he and Jones jointly lead the ownership group. MLB Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr.

expressed excitement about the couple's leadership and their understanding of the Padres' importance to the city of San Diego and its fans. In a joint statement, Jones and Feliciano emphasized the importance of family and their commitment to success on and off the field. They stated that they will bring the same dedication and drive to their role as owners of the Padres, building upon the strong foundation already in place.

Their diverse leadership and ambition to win make them a perfect fit for the franchise.