Griffin The Golden Retriever Receives Honorary Diploma At Owner's Graduation

David Barden

A loyal service dog named Griffin has received an honorary diploma for the “steadfast commitment” he gave his owner while she earned her master’s degree.

Clarkson University in upstate New York honored the 4-year-old golden retriever on Saturday after his owner, Brittany Hawley, graduated with a degree in occupational therapy.

Hawley said she pushed for Griffin to graduate "from Day One." (Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS)
Hawley said she pushed for Griffin to graduate "from Day One." (Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS)

The pair joined forces in 2016 after Hawley, who uses a wheelchair and has chronic pain, applied for a service dog through “paws4prisons,” a program where inmates train animals.

Griffin accompanied her to lectures and internships and was always there to render assistance.

“I pushed for him to graduate from Day One,” Hawley said. “He did everything I did.”

The university’s board of trustees lauded Griffin for his “extraordinary effort ... and diligent dedication to the well-being and student success” of Hawley, The Associated Press reported.

Hawley said she can't wait to see what adventures lie ahead. (Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS)
Hawley said she can't wait to see what adventures lie ahead. (Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS)

In a Facebook post, Hawley expressed her gratitude to Griffin, adding that she was excited for their future adventures:

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The Edmonton International airport has brought in dogs to help<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2014/10/28/edmonton-airport-dogs_n_6062010.html?1414514529" target="_blank"> calm the nerves of anxious fliers</a>.
The Edmonton International airport has brought in dogs to help calm the nerves of anxious fliers.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.