As most of us have heard by now, African American billionaire, Robert F. Smith, made an incredibly generous offer to the 2019 graduating class of Morehouse College over the weekend. Now, Bill Cosby and his wife, Camille, have spoken out to praise Smith’s kindness.
Before we get into Bill and Camille’s statements, here’s a quick recap of who Robert F. Smith is and what he’s done offered the Morehouse grads: Smith is described as ‘former chemical engineer and investment banker, he is the founder, chairman, and CEO of private equity firm Vista Equity Partners,’ which is how he’s racked up approximately $5 billion in net worth to date.
When Smith delivered the commencement speech at Morehouse’s 2019 graduation, he promised to pay off the college debt of the ENTIRE 2019 class. That was completely unexpected and the graduates, along with their families cried tears of joy. Ironically, after Smith’s video went viral online, he received a few ignant comments from those who think he is somehow wrong for funding the education of African American graduates. Yeah, I know…that makes no sense, but it’s not shocking to say the least.
Anywho, now there are two people who most definitely are ridin’ with Smith on this- Mr. and Mrs. Cosby, who have a special connection with Morehouse. Their son, Ennis Cosby- who was murdered during a car jacking years ago- was a Morehouse graduate. Since then, the Cosbys have donated millions to the school throughout the years, wth Bill’s most recent donation being in $3 million just a few years ago.
Camille’s Statement…
Camille tells The Blast, “I was excited to read how this Giant Of A Man [Mr. Robert F. Smith] vowed to pay off Morehouse Class Of 2019’s student loans. It’s due time that more wealthy African-Americans take up this mantle, that was truly started by non-wealthy, non-educated Blacks, who understood that education meant freedom. … “Education gives you permission to pass through the gates, even when a sign says Do Not Enter.”
Bill’s Statement…
“I salute Mr. Robert F. Smith; he has just reached one step closer to finding a cure for America’s deadly diseases, by funding education.” He added, “earning is contagious; I’m a living witness on the inside of this institution [SCI Phoenix],” and, “Mrs. Cosby and I are smiling with our son, Ennis.”
Pretty sure, there are millions of other folks out who agree with the Cosbys on this. We salute Robert F. Smith for going above and beyond to pay it forward and be an excellent example of great character, success, and selflessness for young people.
