Donors pay off student loans for NC State textile grads at commencement

A donor couple paid off all final-year student loans for North Carolina State University's Wilson College of Textiles graduates during Friday's commencement ceremony, ABC7 Los Angeles reported.

The surprise announcement — reported by ABC7 Los Angeles, which covers Southern California and the Orange County region — highlighted a rare act of philanthropic generosity toward graduates entering the workforce burdened with student debt.

Anil Kochhar and Marilyn Kochhar made the announcement publicly during the Wilson College of Textiles graduation ceremony at NC State in Raleigh, according to ABC7 Los Angeles. The couple's gift covered final-year student loan balances for the entire 2026 graduating class.

ABC7 Los Angeles reported that students said the donation may change their lives. The announcement came as a surprise mid-ceremony, adding an emotional charge to the commencement proceedings at the Raleigh campus.

Wilson College of Textiles, part of NC State University, trains students in textile science, design, and engineering. Graduates enter industries ranging from fashion to advanced materials manufacturing.

The ABC7 Los Angeles report did not include details on the total value of the debt relief or the Kochhar couple's personal background and ties to the institution.

ABC7 Los Angeles reported that students called the donation a gift that may just change their lives.