In a powerful and deeply personal celebration of perseverance, passion, and purpose, Angel Infante and his son, Mike Infante, recently graduated together from Sacramento State — marking a milestone not just in their individual lives, but in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to know their story.

For Angel, graduating from the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program at Sac State’s College of Continuing Education (CCE) represents more than a new credential — it’s a bold chapter in a lifelong commitment to learning. For Mike, receiving his bachelor’s degree and simultaneously launching a promising acting career — despite the challenges of living with cerebral palsy — is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of representation.

A Father’s New Path

After nearly two decades working in corrections, including nine years in a demanding administrative role overseeing healthcare operations across the state, Angel Infante wasn’t looking for an easy path — he was looking for a meaningful one.

“I’m a lifelong learner,” Angel said. “I’ve worked various jobs that taught me new life skills. EMT training was the next step. It inspired me not only to learn about the medical field, but also to make better health choices in my own life.”

His experience in the CCE program exceeded expectations.

“In our class, we had students from all walks of life — high school seniors, college students, career changers. We built study groups, practiced hands-on skills, and encouraged one another every step of the way. That camaraderie was priceless,” Angel said.

He credits his instructors, especially Ray Ashcraft and the team of alumni teaching assistants, for their humor, experience, and guidance. “They ensured we succeeded — not just in learning the material, but in developing confidence.”

Now nearing retirement from his current career, Angel has no plans to slow down. He’s actively exploring volunteer opportunities at a local fire station to gain field experience and considering continuing his studies to become a paramedic.

Most importantly, he made this journey with the unwavering support of his family.

“I gave up weekends and evenings to study,” Angel said. “But the reward of learning a new skill and completing the course was more than worth it.”

A Rising Star

The moment was double sweet for Mike Infante, who graduated with his undergraduate degree from Sac State at the same time as his father.

“It feels great,” Mike said. “Achieving another milestone with my dad is very special.”

Mike’s time at Sac State was filled with growth, community, and artistic achievement. Like many students, he faced the challenge of adjusting to new classes each semester. But with determination and consistency, he found his rhythm.

What sets Mike apart is not only his academic success but his blossoming career in entertainment.

Mike recently starred in the film Freaky Tales, which screened at the Sundance Film Festival, sharing a credit alongside icons like Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, and Tom Hanks.

“Working on that movie was a dream come true. I met so many amazing people and friends. It’s surreal.”

He also performed in Sac State’s spring production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time — a fitting choice for a young actor who continues to break barriers in the world of performing arts.

Living with cerebral palsy, Mike is candid about the challenges he’s faced — but even more passionate about maintaining a strong mindset.

“Yes, sometimes it makes daily life harder, but it’s all about perspective,” Mike says. “I always give 110% in whatever I do.”

He hopes his presence in film and education sends a message: “When I was younger, I didn’t see people with disabilities like mine in movies or on TV. I want to be part of that change. I want younger kids — and their parents — to see that nothing is impossible.”

What Comes Next

Mike is pursuing state employment opportunities while continuing to act in film and television. He’s also writing a series of short films he hopes to produce, while building a growing presence on social media as a disability advocate.

“It’s a mix of everything,” Mike said. “Acting, advocacy, and continuing to grow. If I can do it, anyone can. It’s you vs. you. Don’t let anything limit you.”

Angel, meanwhile, is energized by this shared accomplishment and the next chapter in his journey.

“This program opened my eyes to a new direction,” Angel said. “It was one of the best decisions I’ve made.”

As the Infantes move forward, their story reminds us of the power of family, the value of education at every stage of life, and the importance of pushing past perceived limitations, together.

In a world where it’s easy to focus on what divides us, Angel and Mike Infante offer something profoundly unifying: hope, courage, and a living example of what it means to believe in yourself — and each other.