During Sunday’s University of Buffalo commencement for the College of Arts and Sciences, graduate Jean-Paul Al-Arab made headlines when he sprinted across the stage carrying his baby son in a royal blue cap and gown. The moment was captured on video, showing Al-Arab entering the ceremony despite being trailed by police and faculty attempting to stop him. He greeted officials and paused mid-stage, evoking cheers from the audience before being escorted off by a police officer.
The incident arose from a violation of the university’s commencement rules, which prohibit anyone except graduating students from participating in the ceremony. A university spokesperson clarified that the police were present for standard safety protocols and had informed Al-Arab about the rules before the ceremony. However, Al-Arab claimed he had received contradictory guidance during a preparation class and believed he was permitted to walk with his child.
In a TikTok video validated by NBC News, Al-Arab expressed gratitude to the cheering crowd for their support, stating that their encouragement helped him continue despite being stopped. He shared his dedication to achieving his degree while balancing full-time studies and two jobs, along with parenting duties. After the event, Al-Arab sent an email of apology to the commencement officials, though the university confirmed he would not face penalties and would still receive his degree. They humorously noted that while his son donned a cap and gown, he was not yet eligible for a diploma, hoping to see him graduate in around 20 years.
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