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 HBCUs Are Transforming Education Into Economic Empowerment
Explore how HBCUs empower Black students through education, career readiness and community impact, driving economic mobility and bridging the racial wealth gap.

The Importance of Black Women Entrepreneurs
Black women are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs today, helping create racial equity in business.

Developing More Green Spaces in Inner Cities
Urban green spaces provide recreational, social and health benefits for residents of inner cities in the U.S. Several organizations are working to build and preserve parks, greenbelts and more.

Bridging the Gap: Propelling Black Pilots Into Aviation
The lack of Black pilots has prompted airlines and other organizations to develop recruiting programs aimed at increasing representation in aviation.

Robert Kraft Donates $1 Million to Promote Black and Jewish Unity
In April 2024, Robert Kraft donated $1 million to United Negro College Fund (UNCF) to promote unity between Black and Jewish student organizations.

Tuskegee University Receives $20 Million Donation to Support STEM and Other Resources
An anonymous donor made a $20 million donation to Tuskegee University. The donation will support STEM resources and other services for students and the institution.

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.