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 Robert F. Smith’s Philanthropy Inspired the Pay It Forward Project
Dr. Ross D. Jordan, a Morehouse College 2019 graduate, started a nonprofit organization inspired by Robert F. Smith’s gift.
HBCU AWAREFEST 2026: Raising Funds and Awareness For Student Loan Debt Relief
In March 2026, HBCU AWAREFEST kicked off its inaugural event, with a week of events including panel discussions, an AI innovation challenge and a fireside chat with Robert F. Smith.
The Importance of PSA Testing for Early Prostate Cancer Detection
Prostate cancer screenings, like PSA testing, can help healthcare professionals detect prostate cancer early, improving the odds of survival for patients.
How Philanthropy Helps Enhance HBCU Arts Organizations
HBCUs are hubs for arts education, helping students prepare themselves for the creative workforce.
HBCU AWARE FEST To Raise Student Loan Debt Awareness
Made possible through a partnership between Live Nation Urban, Student Freedom Initiative (SFI) and the City of Atlanta, the first annual HBCU AWARE FEST will be held at State Farm Arena to raise awareness and funds for HBCU students.
Johns Hopkins Opens Doors With Tuition-Free Learning
In 2025, Johns Hopkins University introduced a tuition-free student agreement covering 100% of tuition for students from households earning up to $200,000 annually.
Robert F. Smith Interviewed at the 2024 Aspen Ideas Festival
Robert F. Smith discussed digital equity, AI, diversity in tech and more with NBC News’ Antonia Hylton at the 2024 Aspen Ideas Festival in Aspen, Colorado.
Student Freedom Initiative’s Expansion Into TCUs Helps Underserved Native American Students
Student Freedom Initiative has expanded into TCUs to help even more often underserved and underrepresented students. Learn more.
Jeremiah Jacobs’ Wish Granted by Robert F. Smith and Make-A-Wish
Learn more about Jeremiah Jacobs’ incredible Make-A-Wish story, which included the opportunity to meet Robert F. Smith.
internXL Partners With Focus Your Ideas (FYI), An Innovative AI-Powered Platform
internXL’s partnership with FYI will help connect the rich pool of diverse talent that internXL cultivates with the innovative AI-powered app. Learn more.
Howard University’s College of Engineering and Architecture Receives Donation From Autodesk
Howard University’s College of Engineering and Architecture received an unrestricted $5 million donation from Autodesk Inc.
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.