TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) A degree has been bestowed upon a retired Kansas farmer who shipped one of his five N-95 masks to New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo despite fears amid the coronavirus outbreak for his wife who has one lung.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas State University President Richard Myers awarded the bachelor’s degree Tuesday to Dennis Ruhnke, of Troy, Kansas. Ruhnke asked in a letter that the mask be given to a doctor or nurse. Cuomo’s eyes misted last month as he brandished the mask and read the entire letter at his daily briefing.

Ruhnke was studying for a degree in agriculture, and was just two hours away from getting his degree in 1971. He left school to take care of his mother and family farm after his father passed away.

“Along with his fantastic demonstration of kindness and generosity, Mr. Ruhnke’s academic work at K-State in his chosen field of agriculture qualifies him to receive his degree,” President Richard Myers said. “Kansas State University is proud to officially recognize Mr. Ruhnke as an alumus and valued member of the Wildcat family.”