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

Russell County Auto Theft: Man Charged in Major Breakthrough Investigation

LEBANON, Va. (WJHL) — The Russell County Sheriff’s Office has apprehended a…

Asian Markets Rebound Strongly, Regaining Momentum After Recent Volatility

TOKYO – On Tuesday, Asian stock markets experienced a significant boost, driven…

Health Concerns Ignite Community Outrage at Dunnellon City Hall After Railroad Tie Fire

DUNNELLON, Fla. – Concerned residents gathered at Dunnellon City Hall Monday night…

Submit Your Nominations: Celebrate Inspiring Women at YWCA’s Annual Tribute Event

The YWCA of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia is calling for nominations…

Vatican’s ‘Trial of the Century’ Resumes Following Notable Prosecution Setbacks on Appeal

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican’s “trial of the century” has entered its…

Breaking: Australia’s Central Bank Surges Interest Rates to 3.85% Post Triple Cuts – What It Means for You

MELBOURNE – In a decisive move to counter rising inflation, Australia’s central…

Diarra Propels Sunderland to Commanding Victory Over Burnley

SUNDERLAND – Habib Diarra’s standout performance in the first half propelled Sunderland…

Florida Advances Legislation to Remove Yellow Registration Stickers from Vehicles

In Tallahassee, Florida, a legislative proposal is gaining traction that could soon…

Chilly Temperatures and Extended Power Outages Persist in Southern US for Another Week

RALEIGH, N.C. – As relentless icy winds lashed the shores of a…

Latest Road Condition Updates from Unicoi & Carter Co. Highway Departments: What You Need to Know

UNICOI COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Following a weekend of winter storms, the…

Orange County School Board Hosts Workshop on E-Bike Safety Measures

ORLANDO, Fla. – The rising popularity of e-bikes among school-age children is…

Prince Andrew Unlikely to Face Further Questioning in Epstein Case

LONDON – Six years ago, Former Prince Andrew’s reputation took a massive…