Service Dog Joins Graduate on Stage at Seton Hall University

On a recent ceremony at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., Grace Mariani received her Bachelor of Science in education from Seton Hall University, graduating magna cum laude. As university President Joseph Nyre presented Mariani’s diploma, he also extended a diploma to her service dog, Justin. The 6-year-old yellow Lab–golden retriever mix, who had attended every class with Mariani, accepted the honor by grasping the diploma tube in his mouth while his tail wagged. The crowd erupted in cheers and barks as the pair left the stage together.

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Seton Hall’s announcement highlighted that Justin had been present for all of Mariani’s coursework, underscoring the university’s accommodation of students who rely on service animals for daily tasks and emotional support. The ceremony illustrates a growing trend among higher-education institutions to formally recognize the role of service dogs in facilitating academic success for students with disabilities.

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• Grace Mariani – A Mahwah, N.J., resident who earned a B.S. in education and plans to pursue a career in elementary and special education.

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• Justin – Mariani’s service dog, a mixed yellow Labrador and golden retriever, aged six, who accompanied her to every class.

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• Joseph Nyre – President of Seton Hall University, who presented both diplomas and highlighted the partnership between student and service animal.

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• Seton Hall University – The institution that hosted the ceremony and publicly documented the event through campus media.

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Seton Hall University’s communications team posted footage of the ceremony, emphasizing the symbolic significance of awarding a diploma to a service animal. The university framed the moment as a celebration of inclusivity and the supportive role that service dogs can play in higher-education environments.

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The public recognition of a service dog receiving a diploma signals an expanding acknowledgment of disability accommodations within academic settings. By showcasing Justin’s participation, Seton Hall provides a visible example that may encourage other institutions to adopt similar inclusive practices, potentially improving access and outcomes for students who depend on service animals.

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