Is Robert F. Smith gay?

Short Presentation

Robert F. Smith is an American billionaire businessman, philanthropist, chemical engineer, and investor. He is the founder, chairman, and CEO of the private equity firm Vista Equity Partners.

Early Life

Born on December 1, 1962, in Denver, Colorado, Robert F. Smith grew up in a middle-class African-American family. Both of his parents were school teachers with PhDs, instilling the value of education from an early age.

Personal Life

Robert F. Smith is married to Hope Dworaczyk, a former Playboy Playmate and television host. They have several children together. Smith is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and the arts.

Professional Life

Smith started his career as a chemical engineer at Goodyear and Kraft before earning an MBA from Columbia University. He then worked at Goldman Sachs before founding Vista Equity Partners in 2000. Under his leadership, Vista has become one of the most successful private equity firms focusing on software and technology-enabled businesses.

What Are Robert F. Smith's Notable Achievements?

Smith's notable achievements include founding Vista Equity Partners, which manages billions of dollars in assets, and his historic donation to pay off the student loans of the 2019 Morehouse College graduating class.

Has Robert F. Smith Been Involved in Any Scandals?

In 2020, Robert F. Smith reached a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice over tax evasion charges. He agreed to pay a penalty and cooperate with ongoing investigations.

What Philanthropic Efforts Is Robert F. Smith Known For?

Smith is known for his significant philanthropic contributions, including a $50 million donation to Cornell University and his pledge to eliminate student loan debt for graduates of Morehouse College in 2019.