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.

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.