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
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.
Steve Harvey’s Commitment to Giving Back
In a 2026 interview with The Associated Press, Steve Harvey discussed his approach to philanthropy and his dedication to giving back to his community. Steve, along with his wife, Marjorie Harvey, co-founded the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation, which offers mentorship and skill-building opportunities, mental wellness support and fosters a
The Unique Philanthropic Legacy of Cornellian Chuck Feeney
Chuck Feeney’s legacy as an entrepreneur allowed him to make significant philanthropic contributions to organizations and institutions he supported.
MacKenzie Scott’s Impactful Philanthropic Support of HBCUs
In 2025, MacKenzie Scott donated approximately $7.1 million to HBCUs; she reiterates that anyone can make an impact, regardless of scale.
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.
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.