Visiting the country of New Zealand was at the top of Cole Hemmah’s bucket list. Just months after graduating from Black Hills State University, Cole was offered a rare opportunity to live and work in the country known for its diverse natural beauty. Originally from Sturgis, Cole graduated from BHSU in 2018 with a degree in outdoor education. He was working in Grand Junction, Colo., as a tutor when a fellow backpacking guide reached out to him with a job offer.

“Lions and tigers and Sting?” The Black Hills State University 2019 Swarm Week will be held Sept. 22-28 with the theme, “There’s No Place Like Homecoming,” inspired by the Wizard of Oz. Each year, BHSU students and the community come together to celebrate tradition and school spirit over a week of activities including the parade and homecoming football game.

Black Hills State University will induct two teams and six alumni into the Yellow Jacket Hall of Fame during the 2019 Swarm Week homecoming celebration Sept. 22-28. The recipients will be honored during the Hall of Fame Banquet Friday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m. in the Jacket Legacy Room of the David B. Miller Yellow Jacket Student Union, BHSU Campus, in Spearfish.

Black Hills State University will honor five alumni during the 2019 Swarm Week homecoming celebration Sept. 22-28. The recipients will be honored during the Alumni Awards Luncheon Friday, Sept. 27 at 12 p.m. in the Joy (Proctor) Krautschun Alumni/Foundation Welcome Center in Spearfish. Tickets for the Luncheon must be purchased in advance by contacting the BHSU Alumni Office at 605-642-6385. Seating is limited.