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.

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.