India, Oct. 17 -- Denzel Washington's interest in acting developed during his time as a student at Fordham University, where a professor encouraged him to recognize his potential. Years later, the award-winning actor supported the university's theater program, helping provide professional instruction and financial assistance for students pursuing the performing arts.

Washington graduated from Fordham College at Lincoln Center in 1977. He initially studied journalism but became interested in theater after participating in student productions. Robinson Stone, a professor and former actor who mentored him at Fordham, played an important role in encouraging him to pursue acting. In 2011, Washington directed a $2.25 million gift toward the un...