Events
Watch videos of Robert F. Smith’s interviews, speeches and panel discussions on topics ranging from his philanthropic goals to uplifting underserved communities and the future of the digital economy.
Videos
Robert F. Smith, the Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, joined Alpha Phi Alpha brothers and Cornell University leaders to celebrate the opening of the House of Alpha Leadership Institute. During the ceremony, Smith reflected on his time at Cornell and how Alpha Phi Alpha shaped his values of leadership, service and community. He also spoke about the fraternity’s mission to develop future Black leaders and create spaces that foster excellence, belonging and opportunity.
Robert F. Smith joined the Reinventing Digital Inclusion panel at the 2025 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland. Moderated by Karen Tso, Co-Anchor and Journalist of CNBC International (Europe), the panelists discussed the success of the EDISON Alliance’s 1 Billion Lives Challenge, the AI for Prosperity and Growth in Africa initiative launched in Davos and how to finance a greater number of technology and AI-focused companies in Africa. They also emphasized the role of Black women entrepreneurs in boosting the digital economies of African countries.
Robert F. Smith was virtually interviewed by Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper during AFRO News’ 2021 Virtual Black Business Matters Expo, where he spoke about Student Freedom Initiative and its impact.
Robert F. Smith spoke at a Town Hall meeting hosted virtually by Eagle Academies. Smith responded to students’ questions and talked about his own experiences attending school in Denver, Colorado.
Robert F. Smith speaks to Roland Martin about Susan L. Taylor’s philanthropic impact through the CARES Mentoring Movement, and his own background growing up in Denver and the impact that his youth had on shaping his future career.
Robert F. Smith gives a commencement to the Morehouse College Class of 2019, in which he announces that he will be paying off the student debt of each graduate.
Robert F. Smith addresses a crowd following being awarded the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy following his decision to pay off the student debt of each member of the Morehouse College Class of 2019.
Robert F. Smith receives the W. E. B. Du Bois Medal from Harvard University, which is awarded to individuals who make an impact on African and African American life and culture.
Robert F. Smith inspires the American University Class of 2015 to embrace the needs of a rapidly changing world during his commencement speech.
Robert F. Smith, who grew up in Denver, explains the lessons learned from the people of his neighborhood about hope and perseverance to the University of Denver’s 2017 graduating class.