BY JEFF CHUDZINSKINorth Country This Week

POTSDAM -- Chuck Lorre, famed Hollywood writer, producer and showrunner, donated $1 million to SUNY Potsdam following a public discussion with President Suzanne Smith.

Lorre, famous for his shows "The Big Bang Theory," "Two and a Half Men," "Dharma and Greg" and "The Kominsky Method," attended SUNY Potsdam from 1970 to 1972 before dropping out to pursue a music career.

During his one-on-one with Dr. Smith, Lorre commented that he has been approached many times over the last 15 years to speak at the school but continually turned down the opportunity.

"I always felt a little awkward about it, honestly. I didn't graduate, I was a drop out. That was kind of embarrassing," he said.

Lorre was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters degree in 2009, when he also served as the keynote speaker at the graduation ceremony as well.

"But nobody calls me doctor," he joked.

But Lorre said he finally took school officials up on their offer after rethinking matters recently.

"I came back to say thank you because the two years I was here, 1970 to 1972...this was a safe environment to be a foolish young man," Lorree commented.

He said when he first arrived on campus this week, he was introduced to the head of campus police.

"The first words out of my mouth were “Oh, I need to say thank you to your predecessor for being so lenient," he said.

On a more serious note, Lorre said he did not take advantage of what was offered to him while at SUNY Potsdam.

"I didn't, I didn't take advantage of what was offered. So, you know, it was hard coming back but I have a chance to speak to you students today. There's a great educational opportunity here. Take advantage of it. There's still plenty of time to make a mess of your lives after you graduate," Lorre said.

Lorre said he "didn't have the good, common sense" at the time he attended to recognize the opportunities SUNY Potsdam provided for him. That's why he wanted to participate with the university to provide opportunities for future generations.

"One of the things Jason (Ladouceur, Senior Director of College Advancement) came to me about was participating financially in the institution. Now, you can't cash this at the bank but here is a check for $1 million for the university," Lorre said.

The moment drew a standing ovation from the hundreds of faculty, staff, students, alumni and local residents who packed into Hosmer Hall for the momentous occasion.