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

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.

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.

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.