The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth’s commencement ceremony took an unexpected turn when billionaire philanthropist Rob Hale made a surprise appearance. Amidst the rain and cloudy skies, Hale captivated the more than 1,000 graduating students by announcing a remarkable gesture: a gift of cash to each of them.
As Hale stood on stage, surrounded by security guards carrying cash-filled duffel bags, the graduates watched in awe as he revealed his plan to distribute money. With mouths agape and cheers erupting from the crowd, Hale unveiled his generous gift: $1,000 for each student. However, there was a twist – they were to keep $500 for themselves and give away the remaining $500.
For Hale, the joy of giving back to the community was paramount. He emphasized the importance of generosity and altruism, particularly during challenging times. This sentiment echoed throughout his speech, as he shared anecdotes from his own life and experiences.
As the founder and CEO of Granite Telecommunications and a minority stakeholder in the Boston Celtics, Hale’s philanthropic efforts have left a lasting impact on various communities. This act of generosity at the UMass Dartmouth commencement was just one example of his commitment to supporting education and empowering future generations.
The unexpected nature of Hale’s appearance and gift added to the excitement of the ceremony. Joshua Bernadin, a chemistry graduate and one of the recipients, expressed his surprise and gratitude for the unexpected windfall. Like many of his peers, Bernadin was unsure how to allocate the $500 designated for donation but intended to use it to support local organizations and causes close to his heart.
Hale’s tradition of cash giveaways began during the pandemic, providing much-needed support and encouragement to students facing unprecedented challenges. The impact of his gifts extended far beyond the ceremony, touching the lives of countless individuals and organizations in need.
Looking ahead, Hale plans to continue this tradition of generosity, ensuring that future graduating classes have the opportunity to experience the same unexpected joy and sense of empowerment. While the recipients of his gifts may vary, one thing remains constant – Hale’s unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
