Smith was originally a chemical engineer and began his career in business at Kraft General Foods, where he earned a four U.S. and international patents. He joined Goldman Sachs in 1994 before ultimately founding his own investment firm. His approach to philanthropy has been described as transformative, and his gifts, much like his grant to Morehouse students last weekend, are often unprecedented. Smith made a $20 million gift to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, making him the second-largest individual donor behind Oprah Winfrey, who donated $21 million to the museum. Other past gifts include sizable donations to Columbia and Cornell, whose School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering bears his name. Smith is also the founder of the Fund II Foundation, a grant making organization focused on preserving and deepening the understanding of AfricanAmerican history, safeguarding human rights, funding education and environmental initiatives, and promoting entrepreneurism. Morehouse graduates interviewed by "CBS This Morning" said they expect that Smith's gift will have an immeasurable impact on their lives. "Just imagine the weight lifted off your shoulders when you have a clean slate coming out of college," said one 2019 graduate with a degree in business administration, who owed more than $150,000 in debt. "It's just an overwhelming feeling, in a good way," the formerly homeless student said. "I'm so motivated to go change the world." Smith had concluded his commencement address by telling graduating seniors, "This is my class, and I know my class will pay this forward." Cause Magazine
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