South Dakota State University announced on May 1 that its 140th commencement ceremonies will take place on May 9 at First Bank & Trust Arena, with more than 1,800 graduates expected to participate in three ticketed events throughout the day. The university said community members should expect increased traffic and altered patterns due to several campus activities during the weekend.
The ceremonies are significant as they bring together students, families, and staff for a major milestone in the academic year. Admission is by ticket only because of limited seating, with each graduate receiving six tickets. Doors open one hour before each ceremony. Security measures include clear bag policies and checks at the southeast or southwest entrances of the arena.
Parking will be free for all participants and guests attending commencement. Recommended lots include Lots 158, 159, 160, 163, and 164. Accessible parking is available in Lots 151 and 152 with drop-off zones near the southeast entrance of First Bank & Trust Arena. Guests are encouraged to follow directions from parking attendants as well as university and local police to ensure efficient entry and exit from campus lots.
Jackrabbit Avenue will be closed from the roundabout south to First Bank & Trust Arena during graduation activities. Ceremonies will also be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. Additional viewing spaces will be available at the University Student Union and McCrory Gardens starting at 9 a.m., according to information provided by SDSU.
The SDSU College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences works to strengthen communities by empowering citizens through sustainable changes in agriculture and natural resources according to the official website. The college includes facilities supporting teaching, research, outreach programs such as SDSU Extension and South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station according to its official website. It recently earned recognition as the North American Limousin Foundation Promoter of the Year for 2025 according to its official website.
As part of South Dakota State University’s largest unit dedicated to teaching, research, outreach—and second highest student enrollment—the college aims through research initiatives “to address problems and opportunities while fostering a learning environment that empowers sustainable changes for agriculture, natural resources, youth, families and communities,” according to its official website.
