Dakota State University Students Plan Rally Against Honorary Doctorate for Kristi Noem
MADISON, S.D. — In a surprising turn of events for Dakota State University (DSU), typically apolitical students are preparing to rally against the administration’s decision to award an honorary doctorate to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem at the upcoming commencement on May 10. Noem, a former South Dakota governor, has faced backlash for her immigration policies and anti-LGBT actions during her tenure, prompting students to voice their dissent.
While DSU, a university with approximately 4,000 students, has largely avoided political protests, the honorary degree for Noem has ignited a wave of concern among students, particularly those affected by immigration policies. Many international students, who have experienced recent uncertainty regarding their legal status, fear repercussions that could jeopardize their visas if they participate in the rally.
"We have students who feel they can’t express their opinions due to political climate fears," said Anden Wieseler, a junior and student senate vice president. The university’s faculty appears apprehensive, with some instructors expressing that a chilling effect exists, discouraging faculty from publicly discussing the issue.
The administration defended its choice, stating that Noem’s contributions in supporting DSU’s cybersecurity initiatives were significant. However, the faculty and student senate showed overwhelming opposition to the nomination, with only one student senator supporting it. “[Students] want to ensure their voices are heard without getting in trouble,” noted humanities instructor Daniel Spencer, reflecting the tense atmosphere on campus.
With hundreds joining the protest, students are set to reclaim the spotlight during commencement, chanting, “No honor for Noem.” Many hope their message will overshadow the political celebration and focus on the graduates’ achievements instead.
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