Monday Message, April 13
SDSU Community,
It is hard to believe, but as we move into the final month of the academic year, it is an important time on our campus. For many of our students, these next several weeks represent years of hard work as they complete requirements for graduation. For others, it is a time to prepare for the next step in their academic journey as they return for the upcoming year.
Our academic advisors, along with faculty and staff, continue to play a critical role in this process. As you engage with students in the coming weeks, I encourage you to remind them to connect with their academic advisors, register for the fall semester and utilize campus resources to address any questions or concerns they may have. Whether through conversations in the classroom, advising sessions or informal interactions, these efforts are essential to ensuring our students stay on track toward degree completion.
SDSU’s 2026 commencement ceremonies are approaching quickly, and we are still looking for volunteers to help make this important celebration a success. Commencement is one of the most meaningful traditions at SDSU, and it takes the collective effort of our campus community to create a memorable experience for our graduates and their families. A simple greeting and the opportunity to help answer questions goes a long way in enjoying one of the most memorable days of their lives. I encourage you to consider volunteering your time and to invite colleagues to do the same. Your participation helps ensure a welcoming and celebratory environment for all.
Also, as we noted from my office last week, I want to remind everyone that will be on campus to conduct a systemwide information technology assessment. The assessment will span across all six public universities and the South Dakota Board of Regents office. This effort is focused on ensuring the Regent system is positioned with a sustainable, well-governed and future-ready IT operating model that supports institutional priorities over the next decade.
As part of this process, CampusWorks will visit the SDSU Brookings campus on Wednesday, April 15, to gather feedback from faculty, staff and stakeholders. Forums will be held in the Pioneer Room (265) at the University Student Union and include a faculty forum from 9:30-10:15 a.m. and an open forum from 4:15-5 p.m. I encourage you to participate if you are able, as your input will help shape the future direction of IT services across our system.
Next week will be an important one as we will hold our annual UBOC reports. It is an opportunity for everyone to learn about strategic priorities throughout the university, in addition to continuing our efforts for continuous improvement and efficiencies. I hope many of you can follow the reports and engage in the process.
Finally, please join us as the South Dakota Board Regents holds an interactive listening session on Monday, April 27, from 4-5 p.m. in the Campanile Room/Hobo Day Lounge, University Student Union. This open session will include discussion of anticipated opportunities and challenges ahead, along with time for faculty, staff and students to ask questions and engage with SDBOR representatives. I encourage you to attend and participate in this important campus conversation.
Thank you for your continued dedication to our students and to South Dakota State University. Your work helps our vlogs move closer to the finish line each day.
I hope you have a wonderful week.
Barry H. Dunn
President
South Dakota State University
Above and Beyond recognizes individuals and groups of South Dakota State University employees, faculty and students for individual and team efforts that go Above and Beyond to make the campus community a better place.
Today, we’re highlighting event organizers and volunteers who brought local and regional community members together with students across cultures. South Dakota State’s American Indian Student Association held the 34th annual Wetu Wacipi on Saturday, March 28, and Sunday, March 29.
Everyone was welcome — SDSU faculty, staff and students as well as the public.
If you don’t recognize the word “wacipi,” it’s a Dakota word meaning “to dance.” Some Native American communities prefer it over the word “powwow.”
The wacipi was a large-scale cultural event that showcased Indigenous art and culture. It featured dancing, singing, drumming and fashion.
There were several on-site vendors and multiple events taking place over two days. That included several dance competitions for men, women and people of all ages. The wacipi also invited middle and high school students onto our beautiful campus for a hand game tournament, held on Saturday.
Reading all that, it’s probably clear to you that it takes many hands to pull off a successful wacipi. And this past month’s wacipi was very successful.
Let’s recognize the people responsible for that.
First, Alejandra Juarez deserves an extra round of applause. She is president of the American Indian Student Association and the reason this year’s wacipi featured its first-ever Indigenous fashion show.
Juarez planned and coordinated the entire show, which was hosted by the South Dakota Art Museum, where she is the Wokini Engagement Fellow.
The fashion show was Saturday night and featured three designers: Kyrie Dunkley, a Dakota Sioux designer, educator and entrepreneur; James Star Comes Out, an Oglala Lakota artist and founder of S’aic’iya Design; and HarmonyStar Straub, an Oglala Lakota and Northern Cheyenne designer.
In addition to Juarez, let’s take a moment to recognize the hard work of the rest of the American Indian Student Association’s executive board:
- Harley Gullikson, wacipi chair
- Bryant Big Eagle, vice president
- Paloma Palmillas, public relations chair
- Michael Hall, treasurer
- Billie DeNoyer, secretary
And this Above and Beyond recognition extends to every student involved in the American Indian Student Association, as well as all the university staff and volunteers who had a hand in the 34th annual Wetu Wacipi.
There’s one more group of people to recognize: Everyone who respectfully attended the wacipi and, hopefully, learned something new or discovered a new connection. Thank you!
The Monday Message appears weekly during the academic year and less frequently during the summer months and holiday breaks.
Information for the Monday Message, including nominations for Above and Beyond, can be submitted online.
Jacks Stand Together
As the spring semester enters a busy and demanding stretch, the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, in partnership with campus and community organizations, continues to offer programs that reflect SDSU’s commitment to safety, respect and community.
These efforts emphasize that Jacks Stand Together — to see, learn from and support one another — while fostering meaningful connections across campus.
This week’s events include:
- CommUNITY Meeting: We All Have a Story to Tell – April 15, 10-11:30 a.m. in Pheasant/Crest Rooms, University Student Union
- Bystander to UPSTANDER Training – April 16, 6-8 p.m. in Crest Room, University Student Union
- Student Belonging Poster Contest – Open through April 23 (For more information, contact Carolyn Killefer.)
All are welcome to participate. These programs are designed to create space for dialogue, build understanding and strengthen the SDSU community during a critical time in the semester.
Additional events and updates will continue to be shared through campus communications, including the Monday Message.
Spruce Up vlog Day
Join the SDSU community for the 15th annual Spruce Up vlog Day on Wednesday, April 22, beginning at 5 p.m. at the west entrance of the University Student Union.
Held in conjunction with Earth Day, this event brings together students, faculty and staff to help pick up litter and beautify campus while celebrating the arrival of spring. Participation from colleges, departments and student organizations has grown each year, and all campus groups are encouraged to take part.
How to get involved:
No preregistration is required — simply show up and participate. Colleges, departments and student organizations are encouraged to attend together, but individuals are also welcome. Facilities and Services will provide trash bags and gloves for volunteers.
Come help make SDSU shine and enjoy time with fellow vlogs in a shared effort to enhance our campus.
Masked: Spring Dance Concert
The SDSU Dance Ensemble will present “Masked: Spring Dance Concert,” featuring original choreography developed by students in collaboration with the dance ensemble director. This year’s theme, “Masked,” inspires creative exploration and expression through movement.
Performances will be held in the Oscar Larson Theatre at the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center on the SDSU campus:
- April 24-25 at 7 p.m.
- April 26 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $16 for adults and $14 for seniors, military, SDSU employees, and non-SDSU students and children. SDSU students are admitted free with a valid student ID.
Tickets may be purchased online at sdsutheatre.org, at the north box office in the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center or by calling 605-688-6045.
Sweeney Todd
The SDSU School of Performing Arts presents “Sweeney Todd,” the dark and compelling musical set in 19th-century London. The story follows an unjustly exiled barber who returns seeking vengeance, leading to a chilling tale of revenge, morality and consequence.
Please note: This production contains mature language and themes.
Performances will be held in the Oscar Larson Theatre at the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center on the SDSU campus:
- April 16-18 at 7 p.m.
- April 19 at 2 p.m.
Tickets may be purchased online at sdsutheatre.org, at the north box office in the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center or by calling 605-688-6045.
Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting Lecture
The School of Communication and Journalism invites the campus and community to the annual Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting Lecture on Wednesday, April 22, at 7 p.m. in the Hobo Day Gallery, University Student Union.
This year’s featured speaker is journalist and Forbes editorial fellow Asia Alexander, who will present “Teaching Under Pressure: Black Educators Navigating Mississippi’s Schools.” The lecture explores the history and ongoing impact of educational inequality in Mississippi, from the legacy of Brown v. Board of Education to current national conversations about education policy. Centering the experiences of Black educators, the presentation examines how historical and systemic challenges continue to shape today’s classrooms.
The event is free and open to the public and is made possible through the generous support of Karen Stuck, Class of 1966.
All are encouraged to attend.
Oakwood Magazine Launch
Join the SDSU community in celebrating the release of this year’s Oakwood Magazine at a launch party on Wednesday, April 22, at 7 p.m. in the Daschle Archives (upstairs in Hilton M. Briggs Library).
Oakwood is SDSU’s literary magazine, showcasing creative work from students, faculty and artists connected to the region. The event will feature readings and presentations by contributors, along with appetizers and the distribution of free copies of the magazine.
All are welcome to attend and celebrate the creative spirit of the SDSU community.
Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family and Community
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2026 Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family and Community Awards, a longstanding program established in 1927. The awards recognize individuals who have demonstrated a lifetime of leadership and service benefiting the agriculture industry, families and communities across South Dakota.
The awards are presented jointly by the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and the College of Education and Human Sciences.
Nomination forms and instructions are available online. To request a printed copy, please email Angela Loftesness or call 605-688-6732.
Nominations are due May 1.
Jim Reese Reading
South Dakota author Jim Reese of Mount Marty University will visit campus for a reading from his new book, “Coming to a Neighborhood Near You: Repercussions of Crime and Punishment,” on Thursday, April 16, at the South Dakota Art Museum.
A reception will begin at 4:30 p.m., followed by the reading at 5:30 p.m. The event is sponsored by the School of English and Interdisciplinary Studies and the School of Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies.
250-plus Years of American Civics and News
Join a community gathering exploring more than . As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, this interactive presentation will examine how civics and communication organizations — from Revolutionary War-era publications to modern-day media and podcasts — have shaped the nation’s history.
The event will be held April 14 from 6-7 p.m. in Woster Celebration Hall at the SDSU Alumni & Foundation (815 Medary Ave.).
Presenters include Jon Ruff, assistant professor of political science in SDSU’s School of American and Global Studies, and Carson Walker, CEO of South Dakota News Watch.
This event is part of a civics and news series launched in 2024 through a partnership between South Dakota News Watch and South Dakota Public Broadcasting, with additional support from the League of Women Voters of South Dakota, the Chiesman Center for Democracy at the University of South Dakota, and the Mike Huether Public Service Academy at SDSU.
All are welcome to attend.
Surplus Rummage Sale
Property Management, in partnership with the Miller Wellness Center and Residential Life, will host a surplus rummage sale on April 17 from 1-5 p.m. in the Surplus Shed.
This is one of only two opportunities this year for individuals to purchase surplus items for personal use. A variety of items will be available, and the event is open to the public.
Don’t miss this chance to explore available surplus inventory. For more information, please contact Property Management.
Financial Literacy Month
In recognition of Financial Literacy Month, University Wellbeing will host a virtual panel titled “Level Up Your Money: College Finance” on Wednesday, April 15, from noon-1 p.m. .
The panel will feature SDSU experts:
- Kevin Fullerton, Career Services director
- Beth Vollan, Financial Aid director
- Bruce Johnson, business management instructor
Topics will include managing money while in college; understanding financial aid, loans and debt decisions; preparing for income and career transitions; building long-term financial confidence; and protecting yourself financially.
All are encouraged to attend and gain practical tools to support financial well-being.
South Dakota Art Museum: America in Art Exhibition Survey
The South Dakota Art Museum is preparing for its upcoming exhibition, “America in Art,” which will be on view June 13, 2026-Jan. 2, 2027. Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, the exhibition will explore the promise and paradox of the nation’s legacy, examining the ideals, struggles, freedoms and contradictions that define it.
To help guide the curatorial direction of the exhibition, the museum is seeking input from the campus and broader community. Feedback will help ensure the exhibition reflects a wide range of perspectives and resonates with audiences.
and sharing it with others. Your input will play an important role in shaping this meaningful exhibition.
Distinguished Alumni Nominations
The SDSU Alumni & Foundation recognizes a class of Distinguished Alumni each year, honoring individuals whose outstanding achievements, service and leadership have made a lasting impact in their professions, communities and at South Dakota State University.
Honorees are nominated by members of the SDSU community and selected by a committee that considers their impact on the history of SDSU, their contributions to the state of South Dakota and their demonstrated spirit of service throughout their lives and careers. Recipients will be recognized at the 2026 Legends & Leaders banquet on the eve of Hobo Day.
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Jacks Gear Drive Donations
The SDSU Alumni & Foundation, in partnership with vlog Central, is hosting the .
From now through April 28, gently used vlogs apparel and gear may be donated at the Jerome J. Lohr Building or either vlog Central location during normal business hours. Donated items will be made available for purchase at the Jacks Gear Sale on May 5, with all proceeds supporting Jack’s Cupboard and its efforts to serve SDSU students.
Please consider donating gently used SDSU gear to support this important campus resource.
University Participation in SBIR/STTR Workshop
Faculty, researchers and staff are invited to participate in an upcoming workshop titled “University Participation in SBIR/STTR: Pre-Submission to Post-Award.” The session will explore key considerations for universities during the development of an SBIR/STTR proposal and after an award has been received.
The training webinar will be presented by BBC Entrepreneurial Training and Consulting and will focus on the university perspective when navigating Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer opportunities.
Date: Thursday, April 23
Time: 12-1:30 p.m. CT (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. MT)
Participants may attend in person at locations across South Dakota or join virtually. South Dakota Biotech will sponsor lunch at all in-person locations.
In-Person Locations (registration required by April 9):
- Sioux Falls: Discovery District, Conference Room 104, 4600 Nobel St.
- Rapid City: Vanderboom Laboratory for Entrepreneurial Research (V-Lab), Room 109, 501 E. St. Joseph St.
- Aberdeen: Barnett Center, Kessler’s Champion Club, 1200 S. Jay St.
- Brookings: University Student Union, Dakota A and C, 1421 Student Union Lane
- Vermillion: Slagle Hall, Room 107, 414 E. Clark St.
Virtual Option: Registration is open through April 23. Please see the registration links online secure your spot.
Student Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day
Registration is now open for Student Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day, which will be held Tuesday, April 14, in the University Student Union. The new event merges the events formerly known as Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day and Graduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day into one daylong event celebrating and promoting student involvement in research and creative activity at SDSU. The schedule and more information about the event can be found on the Student Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day website.
All students enrolled at SDSU are encouraged to participate. There are separate registration forms for the undergraduate and graduate poster showcases, and those links can be found on sdstate.edu along with an agenda of events. Both events are limited to the first 100 students who register.
vlog Central Faculty and Staff Appreciation Sale
vlog Central is offering a 30% storewide discount as a thank you to faculty and staff as the academic year comes to a close. The discount will be available April 22-23, 2026.
Details:
- Both vlog Central locations
- 30% off storewide
- April 22-23, 2026
- In-store only (not available online)
Remote employees may request an online discount code by emailing sdsu.JacksCustService@sdstate.eduor calling the campus store.
Some exclusions apply.
Updated Policies
New and updated university policies continue to be adopted and published. For the most recent updates, visit the New and Recently Revised Policies page on sdstate.edu.
