Overview

• Jean Paul Al Arab, a criminology graduate, carried his infant son onstage at the University at Buffalo commencement ceremony on May 18, defying school rules.
• The university's policies allow only registered graduates to participate in the ceremony, citing safety and order as primary concerns.
• Campus police and event staff attempted to stop Al Arab, but the crowd's cheers supported him as he shook hands with officials and exited the stage.
• A video of the incident went viral on TikTok, sparking widespread social media support for Al Arab's actions and highlighting challenges faced by student parents.
• The university confirmed Al Arab will receive his degree without penalty, while reiterating that commencement rules remain unchanged for future ceremonies.