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

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.

HBCU ELI: Supporting the Next Generation of HBCU Presidents
Harvard University and the HBCU ELI at Clark Atlanta University are empowering the next generation of HBCU leaders.

Fostering Spaces for Future Black Doctors
More Black doctors can help provide better care for the Black community. Organizations such as Black Men in White Coats help bring awareness of the medical field to Black youth.

Fayetteville State University Receives an Anonymous Donation to Support Free Summer School Program
In 2024, Fayetteville State University received an anonymous donation of $750,000 for the university’s 30-60-90 Graduate on Time Initiative.

Njioma Chinyere Grevious: The Violinist Redefining Classical Music
Njioma Chinyere Grevious is making headlines in the classical music industry with her prestigious performances and recognitions. Learn more about her journey.

Negro Leagues Family Alliance Receives Grant From Major League Baseball
In June 2024, the Negro Leagues Family Alliance was awarded a $500,000 grant from the Major League Baseball and Major League Baseball Players Association (MLB-MLBPA) Youth Development Foundation.

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.