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

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.

The U.S. Government’s Commitments to Boost Racial Parity in STEM
Racial equity in the STEM field is lagging, but the U.S. government is taking steps to improve it. Learn about what is being done to provide minority students with STEM opportunities.

Economic and Racial Disparities in Access to Nature
Communities of color are likely to live in nature-deprived regions. See what Lincoln Hills Cares is doing to provide opportunities for youth to explore green spaces.

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail Adds New Sites to its Educational Path
The U.S. Civil Rights Trail marks over 130 sites across the U.S that honor Black history. Learn about the new sites being added and why the trail is important.

The Philadelphia Orchestra Opened Carnegie Hall’s 2022–2023 Season on September 29
Carnegie Hall celebrated the start of its 2022-2023 season with an Opening Night Gala concert on Thursday, September 29 at 7:00 p.m. featuring The Philadelphia Orchestra.

Intentional Ways to Support Black-Owned Businesses
By supporting a Black-owned business, you are helping revitalize the economy and local communities. See what you can do today to support Black entrepreneurs.

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.