Generous Gesture Surprises Graduates at NC State
May 12, 2026
A heartwarming surprise unfolded at North Carolina State University’s graduation ceremony when an alumnus announced an extraordinary gift that left students both shocked and overjoyed.
Anil Kochhar / Wilson College of Textiles
On May 8, graduates from NC State’s Wilson College of Textiles anticipated a routine commencement. However, they were surprised with life-changing news alongside their diplomas.
Anil Kochhar, the keynote speaker, made a stunning announcement. His father, Prakash Chand Kochhar, who studied at the university after emigrating from Punjab, India, inspired this act of generosity.
Prakash Kochhar achieved both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the 1950s. To honor his legacy, the Kochhar family chose to impact current graduates in a significant way.
“It is my privilege to announce today that, in honor of my father Prakash Chand Kochhar, Marilyn and I are providing a graduation gift to cover all the final-year education loans incurred by Wilson College graduates during the 2025–26 academic year,” Anil Kochhar told the crowd.
The announcement initially left the audience in stunned silence, quickly followed by overwhelming applause and a standing ovation as graduates comprehended the impact on their futures.
This year, 176 students earned bachelor’s degrees, and 26 received master’s degrees, all now freed from a substantial financial burden as they navigate their career paths.
“Marilyn and I hope that all of you leave Reynolds Coliseum today not only with a degree but with greater freedom to pursue your goals, take risks and build the lives you’ve worked so hard to achieve,” Kochhar expressed during his address.
