Billionaire Robert Hale surprised graduates from the University of Massachusetts, Boston with a generous donation of $1,000 each. Hale, who is the president of Granite Communications, a communications services provider for businesses with multiple locations, made the announcement during the university's commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 25.
Hale said that he wanted to give the graduates a "head start" in life and to encourage them to give back to their communities. He also said that he was inspired by the graduates' resilience and determination.
"These are turbulent times," Hale said. "But you guys have survived. You have prospered. You are to be celebrated. You've overcome. It's not easy. We're here. And we are proud of you."
Hale gave each graduate two envelopes, one with $500 as a gift and a second envelope with the remaining money to donate to a person or organization in need.
"One says 'Gift' and one says 'Give,'" Hale said. "The first is for you, the 'Gift' is for you. The 'Give' is also for you, but it's to give."
The graduates were thrilled by Hale's donation. They jumped with joy and applauded for about a minute as workers pulled out stacks of envelopes from bags following the announcement.
"I'm so grateful," said one graduate. "This will help me pay off my student loans and start my new job."
"I'm going to donate half of my money to a local food bank," said another graduate. "I know there are people in our community who are struggling, and I want to help."
Hale's donation is a reminder that there are still good people in the world who are willing to help others. It is also a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
About Robert Hale
Robert Hale is the president of Granite Communications, a communications services provider for businesses with multiple locations. He is also a philanthropist who has donated millions of dollars to charitable causes, including cancer research, educational institutions, and other charities.
Hale is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Boston. He is married and has two children.