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.

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.