Service Dog Receives a Diploma at Graduation Ceremony With Owner in New Jersey

A viral video capturing Seton Hall University’s graduation ceremony in New Jersey has gained significant attention on social media. The video featured 6-year-old service dog Justin receiving a diploma alongside its owner, Grace Mariani. Known for their unwavering loyalty, pet dogs are cherished as human companions, and Justin’s exceptional dedication to its owner has earned recognition.

Throughout Grace’s college journey, Justin faithfully accompanied her to all her classes, showcasing its commitment as a service dog. At the commencement ceremony, students cheered and gave a standing ovation as Justin, accompanied by its wheelchair-bound owner, proudly received the diploma. Seton Hall President Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D., raised his hands in celebration as he handed the diploma to Justin, who sniffed it before holding it in his mouth.

The official Twitter account of Seton Hall posted, “Seton Hall President Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D. presents Justin, the service dog for Grace Mariani, of Mahwah, NJ, with a diploma for attending all of Grace’s classes at Seton Hall,” further commemorating the heartwarming moment.

Seton Hall President Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D. presents Justin, the service dog for Grace Mariani, of Mahwah, NJ, with a diploma for attending all of Grace’s classes at Seton Hall. pic.twitter.com/sZgHD5Fs3X

— Seton Hall (@SetonHall) May 23, 2023

A non-profit organization provided Justin to Grace as her service dog. The organization took to Twitter to express their joy for Grace and Justin’s graduation, stating, “Our client, Grace, and her Canine Companions #servicedog Justin graduated from @SetonHall, and now, the entire country is cheering them on! Congratulations, Grace and Justin!”

Jeanine Konopelski, Vice President of Marketing and Advocacy at Canine Companions, shared with CNN that Justin was the second service dog provided to Grace by the organization. Konopelski mentioned in an email to CNN, “When Grace was matched with Canine Companions service dog Justin, she said her dream was to go away to college and become a teacher. She shared that with Justin by her side, she has the best chance for a successful, independent life.”