Al Roker's Emotional College Drop-Off: 'Gonna Miss Him'

TODAY host Al Roker recently shared a touching family update, accompanying his youngest son, Nick, to college. Photographs posted on Sunday showed Nick, 24, looking happy in his new dorm. Al Roker expressed his pride and fondness for his son, quoting his own father: "#cantmissyouifyoudontleave."

Nick's new college chapter follows his graduation with an associate degree in communications in May 2025. He had previously begun his college journey three years prior. Al Roker and his wife, ABC News journalist Deborah Roberts, are also parents to daughters Courtney, 39, and Leila, 27.

Al has spoken openly about Nick's developmental challenges and the initial uncertainties he and Deborah faced. Nick has since achieved significant milestones, including earning a black belt in taekwondo and competing in the Special Olympics. Al Roker credits Nick with teaching him profound lessons about fatherhood, emphasizing the importance of not just loving but also admiring his son.

With their children now grown, Al and Deborah are navigating life as empty nesters. This adjustment has brought a quieter home environment, though Al became a grandfather in 2023 when his eldest daughter Courtney welcomed a daughter named Sky Clara, an experience he described as "magical."