Video shows UB graduate who brought baby on stage chased by campus police
Share this @internewscast.com

A recent graduate from the University at Buffalo won’t face any consequences for carrying his infant son onto the stage during the commencement ceremony held on Sunday.

Jean Paul Al Arab became an internet sensation when a video showed him dashing across the stage at Alumni Arena with his son in tow, pursued by security and campus police.

“They mentioned in a preparatory class last semester that bringing a baby on stage was permissible. I specifically asked, and the response was, ‘Nobody will stop you from walking with a baby,” Al Arab told Nexstar’s WIVB. “I saw it as my final opportunity. It was either taking the step or missing out on walking after all those years of dedication.”

A video provided by the University at Buffalo shows Jean Paul Al Arab running toward the stage as security chases behind him. (University at Buffalo)

On Sunday, Al Arab went through with his plan. Video obtained by the University at Buffalo shows Al Arab scurrying toward the stage with his son (who is also wearing a cap and gown) while security and campus police chase after him. Once on the stage, Al Arab drops his graduation cap, but quickly retrieves it and proceeds to shake hands with schools administrators while a campus officer lingers not far behind.

The crowd erupts in cheers.

A video provided by the University at Buffalo shows Jean Paul Al Arab posing on stage with his son at Sunday’s commencement ceremony. (University at Buffalo)

Al Arab, who is Lebanese, moved to the US three years ago. He tells WIVB he works a full-time overnight job, but he’s also a full-time student studying for his master’s degree and a full-time dad to his nearly seven-month-old son Matnos.

“I promised myself and I promised him too that I would be walking with him on stage,” said Al Arab. “I didn’t mean to cause a scene or something, or disrespect anyone, but I have a lot of respect for UB, I love UB, I love all my professors.”

  • VIDEO: Terrifying moment truck explodes in suburban neighborhood

UB later explained that Al Arab’s actions amounted to a safety violation, but made light of the situation.

“While the situation created a light-hearted moment for the thousands in attendance who cheered on as the graduate took to the stage with the infant in his arms, the graduate’s actions were a violation of commencement rules,” UB said Wednesday. “Commencement rules are in place for the safety of all those in attendance and to avoid disruptions in the venue ensuring each graduate is equally provided with a well-deserved moment to individually cross the stage and be recognized for their outstanding accomplishments at UB.”

The school said that Al Arab would not face any repercussions for the incident, and that he will still receive his diploma.

The school also joked that Al Arab’s son still needs some college credits.

“The infant, despite crossing the stage in a cap and gown, has not yet earned enough credits to receive a diploma,” UB said. “We hope to see him back on stage in about 20 years so he can follow in his dad’s footsteps.”

Al Arab, who speaks three languages, is continuing his studies at the University at Buffalo as he works towards getting his Master’s Degree in Criminology.

“I’m very proud to be a UB graduate, and I’ll be proud of [my son] being a UB graduate too,” said Al Arab.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Tusculum University Invites the Public to Explore the Future of AI at Upcoming Summit

Tusculum University is set to host the Appalachian AI Summit, inviting community…

Daytona Beach Police Report: 8-Year-Old Detained for Allegedly Brandishing Firearm in Park Incident

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Authorities in Daytona Beach took an 8-year-old boy…

Empowering Black Fathers: Essential Resources to Support Pregnant Partners Through Birth

INDIANAPOLIS – As JaKobi Burton gently holds his newborn daughter in their…

FedEx Pledges to Pass On Trump Tariff Refunds to Customers, Boosting Consumer Confidence

NEW YORK – FedEx announced on Thursday its commitment to refund any…

Atlanta Hawks to Host Magic City Tribute Night Featuring Lemon Pepper Wings, T.I., and Exclusive Merchandise

ATLANTA – The Atlanta Hawks are gearing up for an intriguing event…

Sweden Thwarts Potential Russian Drone Amid French Aircraft Carrier’s Arrival

STOCKHOLM – Swedish military forces have intercepted what they suspect to be…

Kansas Overturns Over 1,000 Transgender Residents’ Driver’s Licenses and Birth Certificates

On Thursday, a new Kansas law came into effect, which nullifies amendments…

Virginia Senate Moves to Eliminate Billion-Dollar Tax Break for Data Centers, Sparking Economic Debate

Virginia’s data centers could soon face new financial obligations, as recent developments…

Mexico’s Disappeared: A City’s Silent Protest and Families’ Fight Against Erasure

GUADALAJARA – In Mexico’s bustling second-largest city, the streets tell a poignant…

Traffic Alert: Major Delays on Interstate 26 in Gray Following Morning Crash

A traffic incident involving multiple vehicles caused significant delays on Interstate 26…