Pat Hamill was the guest speaker at DU commencement ceremonies this past weekend. The graduates of 2023 received their diplomas along with a  note from Hamilton and $500. Hamill is a graduate of DU’s Daniels College of Business and CEO of Oakwood Homes.

Hamill has made charitable giving a focus of his life and this gift was an extension of that commitment. He advised the new grads “Keep it if you really need it. Give it to someone who needs it if you don’t. Or combine it with your friends and do something together. That’s all. … Keep it real and do something that matters for someone who needs it.”

The gesture resulted in a standing ovation by the surprised graduates and parents. However, the key message following the announcement by Hamill emphasized the importance of giving to others –  a great message and a memorable gesture by Hamill.

Hamill is well-known and recognized for his charitable work. As a leader who has spent his career instilling the importance of charitable giving and volunteering into his 27-year-old company’s DNA, Hamill was the recipient of the 2018 Hearthstone BUILDER Humanitarian Award. The award—presented annually by BUILDER and Hearthstone, went to Hamill who  has given nearly $6 million to charity in its 19 years. It honors builders who have shown a lifetime commitment to making their communities a better place to work and live. He also started the Colorado Homebuilding Academy to develop skilled labor and jobs in the construction industry,