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Chuck Lorre Surprises SUNY Potsdam with $1 Million Gift at Public Talk

'King of Sitcoms' Chuck Lorre '74 Makes Surprise Major Gift Commitment During Visit to his Alma Mater

Potsdam, NY (09/23/2024) — Renowned television producer Chuck Lorre is used to wowing audiences, and his visit to his alma mater today was no exception. During a public talk with hundreds of campus and community members in attendance, Lorre pulled out a surprise $1 million check and presented it to SUNY Potsdam President Dr. Suzanne R. Smith -- bringing applause, smiles and tears.

The emotional moment followed an introspective and insightful discussion led by President Smith, in which Lorre discussed the highs and lows of his journey, from trying to make it in rock music, to finally finding his stride in writing and producing some of the most successful and iconic sitcoms in television history.

"Coming back, it was a chance for me to I don't know if I want to say make amends to Potsdam, but a 'thank you,'" Lorre said. "For the two years I was here, from 1970 to 1972, this was a safe environment to be a foolish young man. Part of coming back today was to have a chance to say, especially to the students sitting here, there's a great educational opportunity here, and although I didn't take it, I hope you all take it. There's still plenty of time afterwards to go out and make a mess of it all! But take this opportunity that Potsdam offers, to learn in a safe environment."

It was Lorre's first visit back to campus since 2009, when he was presented with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree and spoke at Commencement. During his whirlwind return, he toured campus, sat down for a public talk at The Crane School of Music, made pizzas with students in the woodfired ovens at the HEARTH, spoke to classes, and celebrated the experience with a reception at the President's House, along with former classmates and current students, faculty and staff.

"The simple act of giving without expecting something in return is powerful," Lorre said. "I just want to say thank you for making me feel special. I'm grateful for today."

"We are overwhelmed and overjoyed at Chuck Lorre's remarkable generosity. This gift, and the message that Chuck brought to our campus and our community today, will be nothing short of transformational. We are grateful to be a part of Chuck's story and to see him inspire our students firsthand," said President Smith.

Chuck Lorre created, co-created and executive produced: "The Big Bang Theory," "Young Sheldon," "Two and a Half Men," "Mike & Molly," "Mom," "The Kominsky Method," "Bookie," "Bob Hearts Abishola," "Cybill," "Dharma & Greg," "Grace Under Fire," "Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage" (premieres Fall 2024), and the theme song to "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles."

He is also the founder of the Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, which is dedicated to funding innovative and compassionate organizations in the areas of education, health, and the arts. Reflecting the values and unique experiences of the Lorre family, the foundation supports programs, services, and opportunities for those struggling with less and striving for more. In the coming weeks, the foundation will work with the Potsdam College Foundation to finalize details of Lorre's major gift commitment.

To learn more about giving to SUNY Potsdam, visit www.potsdam.edu/giving.

About SUNY Potsdam:

Founded in 1816, The State University of New York at Potsdam is one of America's first 50 colleges -- and the oldest institution within SUNY. Now in its third century, SUNY Potsdam is distinguished by a legacy of pioneering programs and educational excellence. The College currently enrolls approximately 2,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Home to the world-renowned Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam is known for its challenging liberal arts and sciences core, distinction in teacher training and culture of creativity. To learn more, visit www.potsdam.edu.

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Media Attachments

Chuck Lorre received a standing ovation upon taking the stage at SUNY Potsdam during his visit back to campus on Sept. 23, 2024. He surprised the campus with an unexpected $1 million gift at the conclusion of his talk.

Chuck Lorre '74 (left) speaks with SUNY Potsdam President Dr. Suzanne Smith (right) during a public conversation before an audience of hundreds at The Crane School of Music.

Chuck Lorre joined campus a cappella groups to sing the theme to "The Big Bang Theory," after their short performance at the reception capping his visit to SUNY Potsdam.

Chuck Lorre (right) visited the Timerman Hall Museum, with its exhibits of rocks, minerals and fossils, during his visit to SUNY Potsdam.

Chuck Lorre surprised his alma mater, SUNY Potsdam, with a $1 million gift commitment, during a visit to campus on Sept. 23, 2024.

Chuck Lorre and SUNY Potsdam President Dr. Suzanne Smith join with students, faculty, staff and alumni for a selfie taken by Senior Director of College Advancement Jason Ladouceur at the President's House.

Chuck Lorre '74 (right) speaks with David Barerre '28, a SUNY Potsdam student and major fan of his shows.

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