A recent commencement ceremony at the University at Buffalo became notable after a graduating student, Paul Al Arab, made a memorable entrance by sprinting onto the stage cradling his baby son, all while being pursued by police. The heartwarming moment, which was streamed live, showcased Al Arab receiving his diploma amid a cheering crowd, with both father and son dressed in matching blue graduation attire.
Paul Al Arab, who earned a bachelor’s degree in criminology, shared his excitement on TikTok, where he described his busy life as a full-time student balancing two jobs and caring for his son. In his post, he said, “And here I am, graduating, with my boy by my side. WE DID IT!” However, the incident also included a twist, as university staff had initially attempted to prevent him from bringing his son onto the stage, ultimately leading to the involvement of campus police.
Despite this chaotic moment, the university later clarified that while Al Arab’s actions breached commencement protocol—stating only graduating students could participate in the ceremony—he would not face penalties and would still receive his degree. The university expressed hope to see the infant back in two decades to celebrate his own graduation.
In light of his viral moment, Al Arab has initiated a GoFundMe campaign aimed at raising $10,000 to support student parents who are balancing education and parenting. He noted the significant challenges of managing his responsibilities but emphasized that walking the stage with his son symbolized his sacrifices as a dedicated father.
Al Arab also expressed gratitude towards those who supported him during the ceremony, reiterating his respect for the university and the educational staff. He encouraged a shift in societal norms, stating, “It’s time we normalize seeing fathers in these moments. Being active, present, and proud shouldn’t be surprising. It should be celebrated just like we do for moms.”
This event not only highlighted a father’s proud achievement but also sparked conversations around the challenges faced by student parents, showcasing resilience and determination in the pursuit of education.