Education Reform
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.

Points of Light Launches a Strategy to Boost Volunteerism
Points of Light is the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service and civic engagement. The name was inspired by President George H.W. Bush, who referred to people and organizations engaged in service in the U.S. as “a thousand points of light” In his 1989 inaugural presidential address. Founded

Points of Light Launches a Strategy to Boost Volunteerism
Points of Light is the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service and civic engagement. The name was inspired by President George H.W. Bush, who referred to people and organizations engaged in service in the U.S. as “a thousand points of light” In his 1989 inaugural presidential address. Founded

Johns Hopkins Opens Doors With Tuition-Free Learning
In 2025, Johns Hopkins University introduced a tuition-free student agreement covering 100% of tuition for students from households earning up to $200,000 annually.

eHBCU Digital Portal Expands Access to Education for Students
Supported by a consortium of HBCUs, eHBCU offers online access to educational opportunities, including undergraduate, graduate and professional certifications.

Prepping for the Future: Saving for College Early
In addition to saving early for college, there are organizations that can help reduce the burden of student loan debt after graduation.

Dr. Bernard Harris Inducted Into the Astronaut Hall of Fame
After a historic career as a physician and NASA astronaut, Dr. Bernard Harris was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame.

How MSIs Empower Students and Drive Society Forward
Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) create opportunities for those who have traditionally lacked access to resources. By keeping these pathways open and evolving, we help ensure a brighter future for all.

How To Lead Boldly in Your Community
Bold leadership means giving back to your community so that others can achieve their full potential.

The Ron Brown Scholar Program: Helping Underserved Students
The Ron Brown Scholar Program has been helping underrepresented students for more than 25 years. Learn more about the program.

How NAF Is Improving Educational Experiences One Student at a Time
NAF, a non-profit organization, is helping change the lives of high school students and set them up for success. Learn more.

Why Diversity Is Crucial in the STEM Workforce
Diversity in the STEM workforce continues to fall behind. See why achieving equity in the STEM field will impact generations to come.

Disconnected: What Is Being Done About Internet Access Inequities
Learn about how a lack of access to the internet exacerbates other inequities facing underserved and underrepresented communities in the U.S.

Organizations’ Continued Support of Black Students With Student Loan Debt
Learn about the current state of student debt and what Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation is doing to support Black students across the country who are struggling with student loan debt.

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.