Additional Coverage:
- Father runs across stage at graduation with baby in arms as security tries to stop him (irishstar.com)
UB Grad’s Dash to the Stage with Baby in Tow Goes Viral
A University at Buffalo graduation ceremony took an unexpected turn on Monday, May 19th, when graduating senior Jean Paul Al Arab sprinted across the stage with his infant son, a police officer hot on his heels. The moment, captured in a TikTok video that quickly went viral, shows Al Arab, clad in cap and gown, clutching his son, who also sported a miniature version of the academic regalia.
Al Arab explained his actions in the video caption, stating that he balanced full-time studies, two jobs (including an overnight shift), and childcare responsibilities. His triumphant message, “WE DID IT!”, resonated with viewers as he celebrated his achievement alongside his little one.
The video shows security and a police officer attempting to intercept Al Arab, but the determined graduate made it to the stage to the cheers of the crowd. He shook hands with university officials, even as an officer remained nearby, and was met by several more officers upon exiting the stage. Fellow graduates and onlookers reacted to the police intervention with a mixture of surprise and disapproval, some voicing their support for Al Arab.
“I ran, that’s what I did. I had to.
I promised him I was gonna walk with him on the stage,” Al Arab told a local news station. He explained that his actions were spurred by a last-minute change by university officials.
He had previously been told he could bring his son on stage, but was then informed otherwise just before the ceremony began.
“During a prep class for commencement, I asked if I could walk with my baby and they told me it was fine,” Al Arab explained in a TikTok post. He alleges that officials attempted to stop him and even called the police when he proceeded with his original plan. He credits the support of the cheering crowd for ultimately allowing him to cross the stage with his son.
The University at Buffalo defended its actions, citing safety regulations and the importance of ensuring a smooth ceremony for all graduates. In a statement, the university emphasized the need to maintain order and provide each graduate with their individual moment of recognition.
Despite the controversy, Al Arab has received an outpouring of support online. He clarified that he completed his degree requirements in the fall of 2024 and had already received his diploma, but was participating in the spring 2025 commencement ceremony.