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.

Warren Buffett Accelerates His Philanthropic Giving
Famed American philanthropist and investor Warren Buffett announced in July that he plans to accelerate his charitable donations by giving away his remaining Berkshire Hathaway shares by 2034. Buffett, the former CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, has long planned to donating 99% of his wealth, and his giving continues to shape

Warren Buffett Accelerates His Philanthropic Giving
Famed American philanthropist and investor Warren Buffett announced in July that he plans to accelerate his charitable donations by giving away his remaining Berkshire Hathaway shares by 2034. Buffett, the former CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, has long planned to donating 99% of his wealth, and his giving continues to shape

How Racial Bias in the Bond Market Impacts Black Americans
New research shows that racial bias has a significant impact on the municipal bond market. Learn more about this issue and how it’s impacting the achievement gap.

Why Do Black Communities Still Have to Fight for Clean Water?
Clean water is essential to surviving yet many Black communities have unsafe water. Learn more about these conditions and what can be done to help.

Student Freedom Initiative Grows to Help Underserved Students
To help free underserved students from student loan debt, Student Freedom Initiative is expanding its program to support 34 schools. Learn more about the new cohort.

Changing Lives Through the Giving Pledge
The Giving Pledge champions wealthy people across the world to dedicate a portion of their wealth to philanthropy. Learn about Robert F. Smith’s commitment.

How Robert F. Smith is Closing the Digital Divide at HBCUs
Equitable access to the internet is lagging at HBCUs. Learn about how philanthropists like Robert F. Smith are helping.

How the National Park Foundation Uplifts Communities
Learn more about Smith’s passion for the outdoors and what the National Park Foundation is doing to uplift communities across the country through nature.

Rosa Parks Statue Honors Enduring Power of Courageous Leadership
Rosa Parks was a courageous leader who inspired others to take action. Her statue will allow others to reflect on what it means to lead boldly.

eHBCU Digital Portal Expands Access to Education for Students
Supported by a consortium of HBCUs, eHBCU offers online access to educational opportunities, including undergraduate, graduate and professional certifications.

The Moody Foundation Donated $150 Million to an HBCU
The Texas-based Moody Foundation donated $150 million to Huston-Tillotson University to support the HBCU’s students.

Smith Recognized for Leadership With the 2025 XCEL Award
Smith will be an honoree and join the XCEL Summit For Men in Orlando, FL. This event will offer leadership growth and spaces for powerful conversation.

Prepping for the Future: Saving for College Early
In addition to saving early for college, there are organizations that can help reduce the burden of student loan debt after graduation.

Code.org Computer Science Education Resources
Strengthening STEM education and the pipeline of future STEM leaders is key to creating the thriving workforce and economy of the future. Programs like Code.org and internXL are essential initiatives to make this possible.