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.

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.

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.

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.

Student Freedom Initiative Grows to Help Underserved Students
To help free underserved students from student loan debt, Student Freedom Initiative is expanding its program to support 34 schools. Learn more about the new cohort.

How Robert F. Smith is Closing the Digital Divide at HBCUs
Equitable access to the internet is lagging at HBCUs. Learn about how philanthropists like Robert F. Smith are helping.

The U.S. Government’s Commitments to Boost Racial Parity in STEM
Racial equity in the STEM field is lagging, but the U.S. government is taking steps to improve it. Learn about what is being done to provide minority students with STEM opportunities.

Student Loan Debt and Black Graduates: A Continuing Crisis
Robert F. Smith’s donation to the Morehouse Class of 2019 and his work with Student Freedom Initiative have focused on tackling an ongoing crisis of student debt.

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.

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.