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
NASA’s Data Science Equity, Access and Priority (DEAP) Opportunity Funds Eight HBCU Programs
In 2023, NASA selected eight HBCUs to receive funding through their Data Science Equity, Access and Priority (DEAP) opportunity.
Dr. Ruth Gottesman’s Gift Makes Tuition Free for Albert Einstein College of Medicine Students
In early 2024, Dr. Ruth Gottesman made one of the largest contributions to a medical school in recent history when she donated $1 billion to the Einstein College of Medicine to establish the David S. and Ruth L. Gottesman Scholarship Fund.
Bridging the Latino Higher Education Gap: The Community College Bachelor’s Programs
Community colleges are helping to bridge the Latino higher education gap with tools like the Community College Bachelor’s Programs.
Robert F. Smith Receives the 2023 HBCU Impact Award
Robert F. Smith works tirelessly to impact and uplift the Black community and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through various initiatives and programs.
SFI’s COO Keith Shoates Testifies at U.S. House Hearing: Creating a Better Tomorrow for Students
Learn more about the work Student Freedom Initiative is doing to create equal opportunities for students.
Morehouse College Class of 2019 Alumni Pay Commencement Gift Forward
Learn more about Robert F. Smith’s financial gift to the Morehouse College graduating class of 2019 and their pledge to pay it forward.
Robert F. Smith Named One of TIME100’s Most Influential People in Philanthropy
TIME100 has named Robert F. Smith a Titan of Philanthropy on its 2025 list of the most influential people in philanthropy, honoring his dedication to giving.
The Dimond Family Helps Cornell Do the Greatest Good
With a $13 million gift to Cornell University, the Dimond family is expanding educational opportunities for students at the Nolan School of Hotel Administration.
The Impact of Centers for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Entrepreneurs and innovators grow through education and professional support. Many university centers and programs focused on entrepreneurship are dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders and visionaries.
The Impact of Robert F. Smith’s 2019 Morehouse College Gift
Robert F. Smith’s elimination of the student loan debt of the entire Morehouse College Class of 2019 had a powerful impact on the graduates’ lives.
Robert F. Smith at the 788th Meeting of the Economic Club of New York
At the Economic Club of New York, Robert F. Smith spoke about how hiring based on merit ensures a company will find the best candidate for a job. He also met with the Columbia Business School Smith scholars.
How HBCUs Are Transforming Education Into Economic Empowerment
Explore how HBCUs empower Black students through education, career readiness and community impact, driving economic mobility and bridging the racial wealth gap.