The new graduates at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth were in for a treat from their commencement speaker, though there was a twist.
On May 16, Robert Hale Jr. lifted the spirits of the 1,200 graduates on a rainy graduation day with an unexpected gift.
In his speech, he shared his experiences of overcoming setbacks, including losing $1 billion, and spoke about resilience. As the founder and CEO of Granite Telecommunications and recipient of the college’s Chancellor’s Medal for his philanthropic efforts, Hale had something beyond words of wisdom to offer them.
Before the degrees were conferred, the commencement speaker returned to the stage at Cressy Field to express that he and his wife Karen take immense pleasure in giving. He then extended this joy to the new graduates.
“We thought that after discussing the importance of giving, we should put it into action,” Robert said, commending the students for the “challenges” they’ve “overcome.”
“Each of you is receiving $1,000 in cash,” he announced to the Class of 2024, prompting loud cheers and shocked expressions from the graduates, according to PEOPLE.
The businessman-philanthropist carried two large bags of envelopes filled with cash onto the stage, explaining that UMass Dartmouth graduates would receive them along with their diplomas.
He clarified that half of the money is for the students to keep, while the other $500 should be donated to someone in need or to a cause they care about.
“We have two gifts to offer you,” he informed the graduating class.
“The first is our present to you, while the second is the gift of generosity.”
The envelopes filled with cash, adorned by elementary school students, were marked with either “gift” or “give.”
Robert, as the commencement speaker, underscored the significance of sharing, caring, and giving, emphasizing that our community and the world require support, particularly during these challenging times.
In 2022, Robert and Karen made a remarkable gesture by donating $1 million weekly for a year. Their contributions went to various charities aimed at improving the lives of people.
Robert, who is also affiliated with the Boston Celtics ownership group, is estimated to possess a net worth of $5.4 billion, according to Forbes.
Robert and Karen, leveraging their wealth amassed through business endeavors, aspire to extend their blessings to the community through philanthropic donations and financial backing. They firmly believe that their assistance can make a significant difference and greatly benefit those in need.
Recognizing that many small groups struggle due to insufficient funds for their vital endeavors, the billionaire couple is committed to providing support where it’s most needed.
To bolster their efforts, Robert and Karen extend charitable donations, aiding non-profit organizations in generating yearly revenue.
This financial support enables these organizations to allocate a portion toward their operational needs, ensuring they can continue their valuable work in the community.
Many substantial donations and charitable gifts bolster non-profit groups such as South Short Stars, which provides quality early education and youth programs for communities in South Boston.
Additionally, organizations like the Joe Andruzzi Foundation, dedicated to supporting individuals battling cancer, receive generous support.
Furthermore, the Hales have contributed millions to hospitals and various organizations in Boston.
Their philanthropy extends to supporting initiatives like Domestic Violence Ended (DOVE), which aids victims of domestic violence.
The Hales also extended their support to the Ron Burton Training Village, a camp led by Steve and Paul Burton from WBZ-TV.
These non-profits, often operating on budgets of less than $5 million annually, faced significant challenges during the pandemic. They encountered difficulties in hiring staff and organizing online fundraisers.
The generous donations from the Hales provide these non-profits with the financial stability needed to invest wisely and secure a stable future, alleviating their financial concerns.
The act of giving brings immense joy to the Hales as they witness their donations making a tangible difference in the lives of others, empowering individuals to extend help to those in need.
Robert and Karen Hales are part of a growing number of billionaires who are choosing to share their wealth for the betterment of society. Their philanthropic efforts serve as a testament to the transformative power of generosity and compassion.
Robert and Karen Hale’s generous donations play a vital role in sustaining important organizations, particularly during challenging times. Their support provides stability and enables these organizations to continue their valuable work, ultimately benefiting communities and individuals in need.
Watch the commencement speech delivered by billionaire Robert Hale Jr. at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth graduation ceremony:
