Graduating Student Brings Baby on Stage at Commencement

BUFFALO, New York — A University at Buffalo graduate made headlines on Sunday when he brought his baby onto the stage during the commencement ceremony. Jean-Paul Al-Arab, carrying his infant dressed in a mini cap and gown, drew a mix of cheers and confusion as he dashed across the stage.

Video footage shows Al-Arab running from backstage to cut in line with the other graduates. He was pursued by several police officers and university staff members. Despite the chaos, he stopped briefly to shake hands with officials while holding his baby, before being escorted off the stage by police.

A university spokesperson clarified that police presence was standard for events like commencement and that they did not intervene until after Al-Arab’s actions. The university stated that Al-Arab received multiple directives about the rules which prohibit anyone but graduating students from participating in the ceremony.

University officials emphasized that the guidelines are there to ensure safety for all attendees and maintain the ceremony’s flow. However, Al-Arab claims he asked during a prep class if he could walk with his baby and believed he had received approval.

“They tried to escort me out, but honestly, the only reason they let me go was because of all of you who cheered and supported me,” Al-Arab said to the crowd, expressing gratitude for their encouragement.

In a post on social media, he shared his struggle balancing full-time studies, two jobs, and caring for his son. “And here I am, graduating, with my boy by my side,” he wrote, celebrating the moment.

The university confirmed that Al-Arab sent an apology to commencement officials and will not face any penalties. He will still receive his degree, although they noted that his infant, despite the adorable cap and gown, has not yet earned any credits.

University officials humorously added, “We hope to see him back on stage in about 20 years so he can follow in his dad’s footsteps.”