When Grace Mariani walked across the stage to receive her diploma from Seton Hall University this week, she was not alone. Her service dog, Justin, was right beside her, wearing a matching cap and gown. And he got his own special recognition from the school president.
Justin is a black Labrador retriever who has been with Mariani since her freshman year. He helps her cope with anxiety and panic attacks by providing comfort and support. Mariani said Justin has been a lifesaver for her during her college years.
“He’s been with me through everything,” she told NPR. “He’s been with me through finals, through presentations, through group projects. He’s been my rock.”
Mariani said she was surprised and touched when the school president, Joseph Nyre, handed her a diploma for Justin as well. The diploma reads: “This diploma is awarded to Justin in recognition of his loyal service to Grace Mariani.”
“I was so happy,” she said. “I was crying. It was just such a sweet moment.”
The gesture also won huge cheers from the audience, who gave Justin a standing ovation. Mariani said she was grateful for the school’s kindness and acceptance of her service dog.
“They’ve been so accommodating and so welcoming of him,” she said. “They’ve never made me feel like he was a burden or a hassle. They’ve always treated him like he was part of the community.”
Mariani graduated with a degree in social work and plans to pursue a career in that field. She said Justin will continue to be her companion and helper as she embarks on her next chapter.
“He’s going to be with me for the rest of his life,” she said. “He’s my best friend.”
