The Excerpt MrBeast is hugely successful on YouTube, but with ECU, not so much
Oct 12, 2025
Chris Quintana, a USA TODAY investigative reporter, dives into the fascinating yet troubled partnership between MrBeast and East Carolina University. He discusses the immense popularity of MrBeast's YouTube antics, notably his philanthropic stunts. However, despite the initial excitement for a new credentialing program, Chris reveals alarming details about its stalled progress and unclear timelines. He also touches on controversies surrounding MrBeast's ventures, including production issues and the mixed experiences of prospective students.
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Formula Behind MrBeast's Mass Appeal
- MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) built massive appeal through extreme philanthropy and spectacle.
- His videos mix life-changing giveaways, big challenges and production scale to attract huge audiences.
Local Roots, Not An ECU Alumnus
- Jimmy Donaldson is from Greenville, North Carolina, and still works in the area.
- He did not attend East Carolina University but has local ties that led to discussions with the school.
Vague Partnership Paperwork
- ECU and MrBeast announced a credential program with a 6–12 month expected launch but provided few binding details.
- The memorandum of agreement appears nonbinding and lacks a clear timeline or operational specifics.