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
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.
The Alma Maters of Robert F. Smith: Cornell and Columbia
Robert F. Smith is dedicated to creating opportunities for talent to rise and thrive in minority communities. One ongoing task is creating a pipeline to graduate programs and careers in STEM for HBCU students.
Robert F. Smith’s Focus on Education and The Eagle Academies
Robert F. Smith has been a longtime supporter of The Eagle Academy Foundation helping young men achieve their educational dreams. Learn more about his support.
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.