UP Commencement Stars UP Grad Kunal Nayyar Of 'Big Bang Theory' Fame

PORTLAND, OR — While it's been almost 20 years since actor Kunal Nayyar of "Big Bang Theory" fame graduated from the University of Portland, he still feels a strong connection to the city and the school.

Nayyar was back in town this weekend where he delivered the commencement address at the school.

"It's often said, 'find your purpose so you can live a meaningful life,'" Nayyar told the graduates at the Child's Center.

"I'd like to say, why not live a meaningful lie and then find your purpose?"

Four yeas after graduating from UP in 2003 with a degree in business administration, Nayyar was cast as Raj Koothrappali on "The Big Bang Theory."

He continued in the role for 12 years as the show became one of the biggest hits on television and the cast became among the highest paid actors on television.

Nayyar, who acted in several performances while in school, used some of his wealth from his 12 years on the show to fund scholarships for UP students in Performing & Fine Arts. Nayyar and his wife also fund UP’s annual trip to the American College Theater Festival.

"The more you know yourself, the more you begin to see the world the way it actually is, not the way you think it should be," Nayyar said. "All of us are trying to fit this infinite universe into a fine understanding.

"We're trying to mold the world into this tiny box so we can control it. I think to be joyful, light, peaceful, it may be helpful to loosen the grip you have on this world a little."

Nayyar, whose character on Big Bang Theory had a doctorate in astrophysics, now has a honorary doctorate in humane letters in real life.

This was UP's first in-person graduation ceremony since 2019.