May 21, 2026
A commencement surprise the internet can’t stop watching
(SACRAMENTO)
The School of Medicine’s 55th commencement on Saturday celebrated its largest graduating class ever. It also delivered a surprise moment that is now drawing attention far beyond campus.
Public Information Officer Edwin Garcia wrote about the moment that quickly began circulating online, to the tune of over 2.6 million views and counting.
“When Habib Salamah’s name was called, he walked the stage with three of the people closest to him: his older sister, his 8-year-old brother — whom the siblings helped raise after their mother died — and his partner, Alaa’i Alshabrawy. After Associate Dean Sharad Jain hooded him, the group paused for photos and started toward the diploma table. Then Salamah reached into his pocket, dropped to one knee and opened a cherry-red ring box.
“Alshabrawy appeared stunned. She covered her mouth, then nodded yes as students and faculty erupted in cheers and a standing ovation.”
Watch the moment here:
The proposal has been viewed all over the world, from Canada to the United Kingdom, Egypt to Australia. The video currently has nearly 107,000 likes and 22,000 shares.
Congratulations to Salamah and Alshabrawy on their graduation and viral engagement.
