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

Dr. Mark A. Brown Becomes Tuskegee University’s 10th President
Tuskegee University has appointed its 10th President, Dr. Mark A. Brown. Dr. Brown has extensive experience in education and previously served as the President and CEO of Student Freedom Initiative (SFI).

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.

Why Financial Literacy Is Important for Students
Financial literacy is a critical component for a healthy and stable future. Learn about why we need it in schools.

How Racial Bias in the Bond Market Impacts Black Americans
New research shows that racial bias has a significant impact on the municipal bond market. Learn more about this issue and how it’s impacting the achievement gap.

Why Do Black Communities Still Have to Fight for Clean Water?
Clean water is essential to surviving yet many Black communities have unsafe water. Learn more about these conditions and what can be done to help.

Student Freedom Initiative Grows to Help Underserved Students
To help free underserved students from student loan debt, Student Freedom Initiative is expanding its program to support 34 schools. Learn more about the new cohort.

Changing Lives Through the Giving Pledge
The Giving Pledge champions wealthy people across the world to dedicate a portion of their wealth to philanthropy. Learn about Robert F. Smith’s commitment.

How Robert F. Smith is Closing the Digital Divide at HBCUs
Equitable access to the internet is lagging at HBCUs. Learn about how philanthropists like Robert F. Smith are helping.