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
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.
Robert F. Smith and Fund II Foundation: Helping Preserve Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy
Preserving Black history is a key mission of Robert F. Smith and Fund II Foundation. Read about their work with The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change.
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.