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

National Park Foundation: Programs Help Get Young People Outside
Access to green space has a big impact on children’s health, learn how Robert F. Smith and the National Park Foundation are creating opportunities for youth.

The EDISON Alliance: Closing the Digital Divide on a Global Scale
As a board member of the EDISON Alliance, Robert F. Smith is aiding a movement designed to bring affordable digital access and solutions to underserved people around the globe.

internXL Creates Equity for Minority Students Aiming for STEM and Business Careers
Robert F. Smith helped create internXL to establish an equitable entry into STEM and business careers for minority students who have achieved excellence, but otherwise might not have a shot.

The Alma Maters of Robert F. Smith: Cornell and Columbia
Robert F. Smith is dedicated to creating opportunities for talent to rise and thrive in minority communities. One ongoing task is creating a pipeline to graduate programs and careers in STEM for HBCU students.

Yellowstone’s 150th Anniversary and the National Park Foundation
Robert F. Smith works with the National Park Foundation to conserve areas across the U.S., like Yellowstone National Park which celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2022.

Robert F. Smith’s Passion for Black History Education
Find out how Robert F. Smith is helping preserve Black history and culture through Black History in Two Minutes (or so), a series of short educational videos.

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.