Panda Express founders pledge $2.5 million

Andrew and Peggy Cherng, founders of Panda Restaurant Group, have pledged $2.5 million to Cal Poly Pomona's Collins College of Hospitality Management.

The pledge, which was matched by thecollege's benefactors and namesakes, Carol and Jim Collins, will enable the construction of a $10 million educational complex that will include classrooms and study spaces specifically for the college's new masters program.

According to a story in the Pasadena Star News,Cherng said he and his wife's shared history as immigrants is what inspires their longtime support for the school.

"The students at Cal Poly Pomona are very close to our heart," he said. "In many ways, they are like us -- first-generation and focused on making a difference."