Celebration and Protest at DSU’s Spring 2025 Commencement

The 2025 commencement ceremony, held on May 10th, marked a historic milestone at Dakota State University, with over 450 students graduating – the largest class in the university’s history. Among the graduates are future cybersecurity experts, teachers, game designers, scientists, and countless other professionals, all poised to make their mark in a variety of fields.

THE COMMENCEMENT

Secretary Kristi Noem receives an Honorary Doctorate of Public Service at DSU’s 2025 commencement.

HOODING CEREMONY

PROTESTORS

Outside the commencement ceremony, a group of students, faculty, and locals gathered, holding signs in protest against Secretary Kristi Noem receiving an Honorary Doctorate of Public Service. The student senate had voted 8-1 against the honor, and faculty also rejected the award, with many voicing their opposition, feeling that her actions did not align with the values they hoped to see represented at the university. Despite the celebration inside, the protests outside highlighted a divide in opinion on the honor being awarded