Philanthropy
News and Updates
Read the latest news about Robert F. Smith’s philanthropy as well as events and news concerning his thought leadership, philanthropic partners and charitable initiatives.
How Providing Students With Online Resources Helps Inspire STEM Careers
Pursuing a career in STEM can place students at the forefront of innovation and technology. Critical to these careers is the development of STEM skills, which can open doors to careers as inventors, astronauts, researchers and leaders in many other technology-related fields. While it is never too late to develop
How Providing Students With Online Resources Helps Inspire STEM Careers
Pursuing a career in STEM can place students at the forefront of innovation and technology. Critical to these careers is the development of STEM skills, which can open doors to careers as inventors, astronauts, researchers and leaders in many other technology-related fields. While it is never too late to develop
The Impact of Black Women Inventors on Science and Technology
Learn about Sarah E. Goode, Marie Van Brittan Brown, Valerie Thomas and Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, four Black women inventors who helped propel science and technology forward through innovation.
NASA’s Data Science Equity, Access and Priority (DEAP) Opportunity Funds Eight HBCU Programs
In 2023, NASA selected eight HBCUs to receive funding through their Data Science Equity, Access and Priority (DEAP) opportunity.
Melinda French Gates Donates $1 Billion to Support Women’s Rights
Melinda French Gates, business owner and philanthropist, has pledged $1 billion to organizations and individuals advocating for women’s issues and rights.
The Jackie Robinson Museum Helps Level the Playing Field for Women in Sports
The Jackie Robinson Museum in New York City hosted the “Leveling the Playing Field: Women in Soccer” event in June 2024 to help foster equity in the sport.
Restoring the Siloam School: One of the Last Remaining Rosenwald Schools
Siloam School is one of the last Rosenwald Schools standing today. Learn more about how these wooden schoolhouses helped provide educational opportunities to Black students.
Reflecting on Diversity in the Arts and Arts Education
Diversity in the arts can provide people exposure to the languages, dance and music of other cultures. It can create bridges between societies and even inspire people to become artists themselves. Ahead, we explore the importance of diverse representation in the arts and arts education. We also discuss famed artists
Southern University Breaks Black Male Nursing Student Enrollment Record
In 2024, Southern University’s College of Nursing and Allied Health welcomed 33 Black male nursing students into their cohort, the largest in its history.
Robert F. Smith Joins Grand Slam Track’s Board of Directors
In 2024, Robert F. Smith joined the board of directors of Grand Slam Track, the premier global track and field league.
Celebrating Women in Finance at the 2024 Girls Who Invest Inaugural Gala
The Girls Who Invest 2024 Inaugural Gala honored Robert F. Smith and Jean M. Hynes, celebrated women in finance and raised funds to advance gender diversity in the industry.
How Black-Owned Banks Help Reduce the Racial Wealth Gap
Black-owned banks, credit unions and nonprofits provide financial options to communities historically excluded from wealth-generating financial tools like mortgages and business loans.
How Cornell University’s STEP Is Helping Increase Representation in STEM
Founded in 1986, Cornell University’s STEP helps high school students from diverse backgrounds pursue careers in STEM.
Inclusivity in the Arts: Black Arts Organizations
Black arts movements paved the way for Black organizations to help promote inclusivity in the arts.