9 students at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania had a weight lifted off their shoulders when Brooklyn Nets player Kyrie Irving recently paid their tuition. The foundation chose to target student tuition relief for graduating seniors, which is especially important amid the ongoing pandemic.

The philanthropic gesture was done on behalf of his foundation’s holiday season of giving. According to Bleacher Report, the KAI Family Foundation (K.A.I.F.F.) paid off the tuition of nine Lincoln University students as part of their 11 days of giving in December. On its website, the foundation shared that it was designed to “support and equip young people, their families, and communities with resources they need to thrive.” In particular, educational support is one of the targeted goals.

Tyki Irving, the Executive Director for the Kyrie Irving KAI Family Foundation, shared the great news with the students on a zoom call.

“We’re here today to honor you for your commitment to your education. We hope that we’re able to serve you today,” she began.

“And moving forward, with just a small gratitude of your resilience, and your pursuit of being professional young Black men and women, kings and queens,” she explained, “so if we could just help lift a burden and help facilitate that transition to be as smooth as possible, that is what we’re here to do.”

“And thank you for your service and for for yourself. For standing up and showing up for yourself. So on behalf of Mr. Kyrie Irving and the foundation, we are honoring you with paying your tuition for next season. So that way you guys can graduate and have one less burden to worry about. And we look forward to seeing your leadership, your liberation, and your learning experience to change the world,” said the executive director.

Kyrie Irving, who was also on the call, looked admirably at the students.

“I’m grateful for all you young leaders,” shared Kyrie. “You know, I wouldn’t be sitting in my position and embracing who I am without knowing where I come from and people helping me along the way. Just paying it forward.”

“Servitude is something that we all have a choice in. You know, and I’ve committed to my service a long time ago. I’m walking the steps right now and I want the same for others,” Irving encouraged.