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
How Philanthropy Supports Student Success and College Affordability
Philanthropy has long played a pivotal role in making higher education more affordable and accessible. Visionary philanthropists like Johns Hopkins and Mary McLeod Bethune created opportunities for students to pursue higher education at institutions that still bear their names. The role of philanthropy in college affordability is even more important
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.
Celebrating the 2023 Sphinx Medals of Excellence Honorees
The Sphinx Organization recognizes three musicians each year through the Sphinx Medals of Excellence. Learn more about the 2023 honorees.
Where Are the Black Physicists?
In the last 20 years, the number of Black physicists in STEM has decreased by more than 2%. It’s vital to understand why and take action to boost racial parity.
Philanthropy in Black Communities
Philanthropy has always existed in Black communities, where mutual aid is a part of daily life. It’s not considered charity to support your neighbor, it’s simply the right thing to do.
Diversity in the STEM Workforce
The shortage of Black teachers continues to have an impact on diversity within the STEM workforce today. Read on to see how we can end the fight for diversity.
The National Action Network & Civil Rights
The National Action Network, founded in the ‘90s by Rev. Al Sharpton, fights for justice, decency and equal opportunities for all. Here’s a look at its history.
Student Loan Debt and Black Graduates: A Continuing Crisis
Robert F. Smith’s donation to the Morehouse Class of 2019 and his work with Student Freedom Initiative have focused on tackling an ongoing crisis of student debt.