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

Robert Kraft Donates $1 Million to Promote Black and Jewish Unity
In April 2024, Robert Kraft donated $1 million to United Negro College Fund (UNCF) to promote unity between Black and Jewish student organizations.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.