(12:16) Unidentified Individual "Do I come in now or what're we...? Do I go over there now, or? Okay."

(25:01) Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "Good morning. I'm Steve Meeker, Vice President for University Advancement. It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 178 commencement ceremony at Black Hills State University. Please rise for the presentation of colors by the BHSU ROTC color guard."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "Today's ceremony is led by our Student Senate President Miss Hannah Neumiller. Joining her are participants in today's commencement ceremony and platform party guests, including President Laurie Nichols and Regent John Bastian. Also represented, our members of the Black Hills State University administration, the Council of Dean's and the Faculty Senate."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "Members of the administration in the esteem faculty at Black Hills State University representing the College of Business and Natural Sciences, the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, and the College of Liberal Arts led by Dr. Jamie Stone, associate professor of Mathematics Education."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "And now it is my pleasure to present the graduates from the class of 2019. Candidates for the master's degree led by Dr. Laura Colemenero-Chilberg, professor of sociology and graduate coordinator for strategic leadership. Also led by Dr. Pam Carriveau, associate professor of political science and sociology."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "University Honors Scholars led by Ms. Kelly Kirk director of the University Honors Program."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "Candidates for the baccalaureate degree from the College of Business and Natural Sciences led by Dr. Jeff Weary, associate professor of management and chair in the School of Business. Also led by Dr. Charlie Lamb professor of Biology and chief research officer. And by Dr. Mike Isaacson Assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "Candidates for the baccalaureate degree from the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences led by Dr. Nathan Deichert, associate professor of psychology and the chair of the School of Behavioral Sciences . Also led by Dr. Rich Carriveau associate professor of educational foundations and reading and the chair of the School of Education."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "Candidates for the baccalaureate degree from the College of Liberal Arts led by Dr. Martin Fashbaugh associate professor of English and the chair of the School of Arts and Humanities and by Dr. Daluss Siewert professor of mathematics and chair of the School of Mathematics and Social Sciences."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "Candidates for the Associates Degree led by Mr. Jerry Rawlings associate professor of mass communications.

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "And now ladies and gentlemen, I ask that you please remain standing for the National Anthem, under the direction of Dr. Jonathan Nero. We remind all in attendance that proper is to face the flag, stand at attention with your right hand over your heart, men should receive...excuse me...men should remove their hat or cap, veterans and active-duty military not in uniform may also salute the flag. And now Ladies and gentlemen our National Anthem."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "Please be seated."

Steve Meeker Vice President for BHSU University Advancement "Ladies and gentlemen, it is my please to introduce to you in the Interim President at Black Hills State University, Dr. Laurie Nichols."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Good morning. I am so happy you could all be with us this morning and welcome to our December Commencement Ceremony. It is my honor to introduce members of the platform part and I would ask that they stand and remain standing until the platform party has been announced and please hold your applause till the end. With us this morning, Regent John Bastian--he is our ceremonial representative from the South Dakota Board of Regents, Dr. Chris Crawford--Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Miss Hannah Neumiller--Student Senate President, Dr. Cheryl Anagnopoulos--Faculty Senate President, Dr. Greg Farley--Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences, Dr. Schurman Adams--Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Science, Dr. Amy Fuqua--Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Director of Graduate Studies, Mrs. April Meeker--who serves as our registrar, doctor...or...Mr. Steven Meeker--Vice President for University Advancement, and Dr. Lois Flagstad--Vice President for Enrollment and Student Affairs. Now would you help me in welcoming our stage party."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Another group that is really important to recognize today, and graduates I'm going to ask if you will help me do this, because they have been your partners in this journey, they have taught you, they have provided mentorship, encouragement, and I bet along the way they may have even prodded you a little bit as you completed your degree. So faculty I'm going to ask you if you would stand and graduates will you help me, especially faculty stand, and graduates would you help me thanking this very distinguished group for all that they have done for you these past four years."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Thank you faculty."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Congratulations graduates, your day has arrived. All those years of hard work and perseverance have paid off. Today you become a college graduate. Where you join 1/3 34% of all adults in the United States who hold a bachelor's degree or beyond. Your degree will open door to opportunities that you can't even imagine today, it certainly did for me. I'm so excited for your future and all the possibilities that you will realize. Becoming a college graduate is a distinction in our society that sets you apart from many others, and that distinction comes because our society values education. Evidence suggests that college graduates are not only highly employable, but they also enrich the civic and economic life of their communities as they volunteer, provide community leadership, or make philanthropic contributions. As Nelson Mandela said, 'Education is the most powerful tool, which you can use to change the world.' Today, with your degree in hand, your ability to make our world a better place becomes much greater. As hard as you worked on earning this degree, you didn't get here alone. Your family has been a great source of support to you through these college years and in a reciprocal fashion your achievement has provided inspiration and hope to your family. Today they are here to celebrate with you and I know as you walk across the stage in just a few moments, they will be bursting with pride. They love you, you matter to them. So graduates, now I'm going to ask you if you would stand up for a moment. So graduates, please stand. And I'm going to ask you, just to look around the gymnasium, and see if you can identify your family--who's here today to support you.

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "And graduates would you help me in giving them, your families, a round of applause for all the support they have given you."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Thank you families for being here today. Graduates you may be seated, thank you. There are two words that are commonly used on days like today, one is graduation and the other is commencement. Graduation signifies the end, the finish line, it celebrates the fact that you have successfully completed this phase of your education and brings closure to this chapter of you life. Graduation says, 'Woohoo! We made it to the end, we're done.' Commencement, on the other hand, signifies the starting gate--the beginning of a new life. It says you're transitioning from the past to the future. Commencement celebrates that the best part of your life is yet to come, it's ahead of you. Both terms are most appropriate today and both are very meaningful, but today I choose to leave you with my congratulations on your commencement, on your beginning. Your future is bright. You have ability, passion, and commitment to make a difference. And as Yellowjackets, graduates of this great university, know wherever you go you will carry your alma mater with you and you will represent as well. Congratulations graduates, on this commencement, on all of the bright and beautiful possibilities in store for you. Grab that future, walk through that door of opportunity, and enjoy life. Congratulations, we are very, very proud of you."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "It is now my pleasure to ask our Student Senate President Miss Hannah Neumiller to come forward as she delivers the charge to the graduates, Hannah."

Hannah Neumiller Student Senate President "Congratulations, class of 2019. This is the day you've been waiting for, the day you dreamed of and thought may never come, the day you have studied hard and paid harder for, the day where you can begin the rest of your life. Maybe you're asking yourself, 'What do I do next?' I promise you, even as someone who's still working towards that goal of graduating, you are doing everything right. Getting a job...is hard. Having countless people ask you what you're doing with your life is kind of annoying. And the pressure to choose a career to define you is crushing. The good news is, that you don't have to deal with any of that. Well, I do recommend that you get a job to afford that morning latte, but you don't have to decide your entire life...right now. I guarantee, that each of us have tons of dreams, passions, and goals for our lives. And there is not reason why we should settle for just one. Today, I ask you one question. Who are you? The most important thing in life is to identify what you believe in and why. Each one of you has different skills and abilities that allow you to be good at what you do. So believe in yourself. Believe that people are good, believe that you will always be more than enough and that you are amazing, and mostly--believe that you are always changing the lives of those around you. Humans are constantly changing and adapting to their surroundings, striving to be better. It's not about being better than the person next to you, but it's about improving on who you used to be. College is the time of our lives where we make lifelong friends, get out Taco Bell order down, and go on spontaneous adventures. Here at Black Hills State we also get to bond with our professors. Take a moment and look in the audience or on stage to find that one professor who changed your life. I guarantee they want to know that they did that for you because that's why they do what they do. BH also lets us multitask in athletics, clubs and orgs, internships, research, and jobs--alongside our studies. Creating experiences that we wouldn't have had at other institutions. The Spearfish community supports the school and more importantly, supports us--the students--with cute coffee shops and restaurants, the beautiful Black Hills, and canyon to relieve our stress, and the uniqueness of the Midwest with its freezing winters and piles of snow. I know I have met my best friends here, found professors and leaders who I will call for advice well after my time here, and a little community I can forever call a home of mine. Thinking back on your time here in Spearfish, remember the people who impacted your life. The one work-study or internship you got that you were so excited for you called your mom right away. Remember the two a.m. morning's crying over homework, but also the nights that turned into mornings without you realizing because you were laughing so hard. If you can, try to remember who freshman you was--probably a lot less confident in who you were and a lot more scared for what you were doing. That's not to say that we can't be nervous for the future now too--but the people, places, and ideas we found in the last few years have taught us how to grow into who we dream of being. In the words of John Steinbeck, 'And now that you do not have to be perfect you can start to be good.' Whether you're going to teach middle schoolers, to be a neurosurgeon, to work in business, or even to be a poet--shout out to Haley. You can always do good. You are sitting in the chair I wish I were in. So all I ask of you is to be fearlessly confident in yourself, to always be striving to see growth in yourself, and to follow your wildest dreams because anything is possible. We are all so proud of you. So be proud of yourself in everything that you've accomplished and everything you're going to achieve. Congratulations, Class of 2019! Go out and conquer the world!"

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Thank you Hannah. We're privileged to have Regent John Bastian who will bring you greetings from the South Dakota Board of Regents."

Regent John Bastian South Dakota Board of Regents "Thank you President Nichols and good morning everyone. It's an honor to join you this morning and greet you on behalf of the South Dakota Board of Regents. The board joins your families and your friends today in commending and congratulating you on your hard work in earning a university degree. The board also thanks you for your commitment to South Dakota public higher education. The state and the nation and the world will benefit from the success that you achieved here. Black Hills State University plays an important role in the system of public higher education in this state. In addition to sending educated and skilled graduates out into the world, approximately 258 million dollars of annual economic impact to South Dakota. A college degree is unique it's one of the few things that once earned, is never diminished, and can never be taken away. 30, 40, 50 years from now you will have the degree that you earn today. And most importantly you'll be able to look back on the tangible and intangible rewards that your degree, continued hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning has bestowed. So it is indeed an honor to be with you today. The poet Robert Frost once said that, "Home is the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in." Soon you will be alumni, please remember that Black Hills State University is home, and you will always be welcomed when you return. A former member of the Board of Regents referred to this part of the program as...as one that should have a short beginning, a short ending, and not much between. So in that spirit, and with the authority vested in me by the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, I delegate to President Nichols the authority to award degrees and diplomas with the attendant rights, privileges, and responsibilities. Thank you for the opportunities to join you this morning."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Thank you Regent Bastian. I'm pleased to introduce the Black Hills State University Women's Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Jonathan Nero, to perform 'The Parting Glass.'"

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Thank you Women's Ensemble. Graduates, we're at that moment for which you have been preparing for the last several years. Before you come forward to receive your diploma, I would like to take a moment to recognize those who are first-generation graduates in their families. This extends to both the graduates and the members in the audience. So if you are first in your family to graduate from college, would you stand so we can say as special congratulations to you?"

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Congratulations."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "A photographer from Lifetouch Special Events will be taking pictures today. Which will be available for purchase one week following this ceremony. The website address is on the inside cover of your commencement program. Family and friends of the graduates, as a courtesy to the students who are graduating as well as the people sitting near you, we ask that you remain seated until the conclusion of the ceremony. So graduates please stand."

Dr. Chris Crawford BHSU Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs "President Nichols I had the honor to present the class of 2019. On behalf of the faculty, I present them to you as fully qualified to receive their diplomas."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "By the virtue of the authority vested in me by the South Dakota Board of Regents and upon recommendation of the faculty. I hereby confer upon you the associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees with all the rights, privileges, and responsibilities pertaining thereto. Congratulations graduates. You may be seated."

Dr. Chris Crawford BHSU Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs "The first group of students who will be asked to come forward are graduating with master's degrees. They will be hooded as part of today's ceremony. Will the candidate for the master's degree please rise and come forward."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Julia S. Hermoso."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Stephanie Marie Janis."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "William Kelly."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Chad Allen Vickers."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Jordan Richard Houdek."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Shelby Thompson."

Chris Crawford BHSU Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs "The next group of students who will be asked to come forward are graduating from the University Honors Program. They will receive a medallion symbolizing their distinction as honors scholars. Will you please come forward."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Kaitlynn V. Kelly, Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Erika Rose Paloniitty, Summa Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Jessica L. Ross, Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Skylar Haleh Smith, Summa Cum Laude."

Dr. Chris Crawford BHSU Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs "I would like to present Dr. Greg Farley, Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Will the candidates for the bachelor's degree in the College of Business and Natural Sciences, please rise and come forward to receive your diplomas."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Alicia Nicole Absher."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Elizabeth Pearl Andresen."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Grace Marie Baumgarten."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Ashton Roger Beck."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Sara Lynn Becker."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Deidra Drageset."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Mark Anthony Erickson, Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Savannah Rose Franklin."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Tanner Ryan Gilge."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Sarah Nicole Glanzer."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Ranni McHale Hopkins, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Bianca Emilia Hutzler, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Jess Leyland Johnson."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "McCaleb Marque McInnis."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Clayton Wayne Nielsen, Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Katelyn M. Oehlerking."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Stephanie Sue Ransom."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Christopher James Rivera, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Rebekah Lynn Ruby, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Kayly Shade Scheller."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Jason Robert Schneider."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Tyler C. Schwingler, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Shayla Gray Seales."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Laura Clarita Seumanutafa."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Morgan Nicole Seymour."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Leanna Jacqueline Thara."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Shanna Alice Thieleman Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Dylan Be Vanetti, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Andreea Lynn Wagner."

Dr. Greg Farley Dean of the College of Business and Natural Sciences "Kelsi Diane Wood."

Dr. Chris Crawford BHSU Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs "At this time I would like to present Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Thank you. Will the candidates for the bachelor's degree, in the College of Education and Behavioral Science, please stand up and come forward to receive your diplomas."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Jordan Noel Ozzy."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Aaron Michelle Atkins."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Riley Gene Patay, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Karissa Love Basara."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Pascal G. Bedard."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Paige A. Bilkey."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Brooke Kelly Bonett."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Gregory W. Bomb."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Dakota Q. Crocker."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Tooty Raine Crosby."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Shelby Anne Crown."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Shelby Jean Ditman, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Ashlynn Eliza Dalacin."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Clayton Ray Dry."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Pionteh J. Edwards."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Alexandria Murray Ingbarth."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Darrien Tiara England, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Erin Anne Earnest, Summa Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Trey Low Flemming."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Frasure Riggs."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Tory R. Fulton."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Ethan Kenneth Gar."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Joshua D. Gurnaby."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Elena Caitlin Hallstalder

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Heather Elena Hank."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Christian Hernandez."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Lilia Christine Hoffman, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Jacob L. Iverson, Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Isaac Lee Jefferson."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Kaitlyn Alisa Johnson."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Savannah Lynn Kinser, Summa Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Kira Anne Clapperic, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Julie M. Night, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Kaylee J. Coulter."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Zane Joshua Lindsey."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Haley R. Matson, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Brent Victor Moe, Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Kara Alexis Morford."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Carly Paige Neiman."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Alexander N. Norlin."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Jolynn D. Passmore, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Brandon M. Pattrato."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Amanda Lynn Plaumin, Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Jessica M. Rear."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Tory Elizabeth Simonson, Cum Laude"

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Samara Jade Toyland."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Lynnae Nicole Sparker, Summa Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Samantha G. Sutherland."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Taya Sydney Swanson, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Eric Blair Swiftwater."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Isaac J. Taylor."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Edward Newlin Thomas."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Zachary Daniel Omer."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Danielle Ashley Wellman."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Tarin R. Whelchel."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Abagail Rissa Winter."

Dr. Sharman Adams Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences "Merry E. Switricroot."

Dr. Chris Crawford BHSU Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs "At this time, I'd like to present Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts.

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Will the candidates for the bachelor's degree in the College of Liberal Arts please rise and come forward to receive your diplomas."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Emilia Michelle Anderson."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Adam Randal Birds, Cum Laude."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Haylie K. Bowen Cum Laude."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Erica Lawrence Sirvinnie."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Dusty Murray Clements."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Luke A. Dairmyer."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Bennett Donald Order."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Sidney Jane Dorman, Magna Cum Laude."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Arthur Friend Huh."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Tessa Reg Garmin."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Ariane De s Grindle."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Katie Mae Hague kum laude."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Tiana Casa."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Megan Elizabeth Kim Kenny."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Ricky Oscar Larsen."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Brianna Louise McMahon laude."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Lisa A Myrick."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Ryan C Olsen."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Michaela Katherine Kabul."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Micah David Pennell magna laude."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Hannah Nancy Petersen."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Tristan Elizabeth Polanski."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Zachary Lyon Powers."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Sarah And Ray Third laude."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Robles magna laude."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Tyler T Sans."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Grace Catherine Stegner."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Christiane Twigs Hammond summa laude."

Unnamed Individual "Will the candidates for the associates degrees please rise and come forward to receive your diplomas."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Joseph Paul Fleming."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Sydney Buried Grandpa."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Julie Rene Huntzberger."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Breanna McKinley Kozma with honors."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Brittany Alexia Levine."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Charlene M Lengel."

Dr. Amy Fuqua Dean of the College of Liberal Arts "Jordan Robert Schmitt."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Academic traditions such as the symbolism of the tassel are steeped in history. Moving the tassel to the left after graduating is symbolic of moving from college to another stage of life. It is my privilege to ask our graduates to please move your tassel from right to left, signifying you are now a graduate of Black Hills State University.

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Again, congratulations. Here to bring you greetings from the Alumni Association is Mr. Steve Meeker, Vice President for University Advancement.

Steve Meeker Vice President for University Advancement "Thank you President Nichols. There's a gamble in doing this but I need to. I've attended about 40 graduations at Black Hills State over my years here, including my own in 1984, and I have never heard a crowd as good as this one! Let's hear it!"

Steve Meeker Vice President for University Advancement "Thank you. And thank you for all being here, tis the season. Tis the season for diplomas, tassels, and family gatherings. On behalf of the BHSU Alumni Association, it gives me a great deal of pleasure to take this opportunity to congratulate the class of 2019 and welcome you to our Alumni Association.

Steve Meeker Vice President for University Advancement "It's good...it's good to be here today in the company a lot of smart people and here to be with you today our parents and your family members who raised you, from whom you inherited your good looks and your intelligence from."

Steve Meeker Vice President for University Advancement " So most of you have been here probable four years. You've made several friends and you maybe even did your laundry about a half dozen times. But I want you to reflect back to maybe that first class at Black Hills State or maybe that first Yellowjacket football game you attended or how about that first girlfriend of boyfriend or the second girlfriend or boyfriend or the third girlfriend or boyfriend and then suddenly you realize that you were the problem. Despite that, you have persevered and you are here with us today. So what exactly does that mean? Well graduates, I'm ready to make your day here. It shocks me that some Americans today are losing faith in higher education. They don't believe the investment is worth what you get out of your college degree. Well I'm here to tell you today, that's fake news. To your credit you have not fallen into that trap. Statistics show, that you now, college graduates will make a minimum of 1 million dollars more than those who don't go to college."

Steve Meeker Vice President for University Advancement "So the alumni association wants to challenge you to create the highest, grandest vision for your life because you will become what you believe. Work hard and you will achieve success. We ask that you stay connected with us, we need your involvement in alumni activities. There are many ways that you can assist Black Hills State. Please recommend Black Hills State to prospective students or when higher education need your assistance or Black Hills State in South Dakota--if we need you to lobby lead the legislature, please do for us. Also we ask that you volunteer your time with alumni activities and also attend our gatherings and reunions that we have. Another way to support Black Hills State is to provide financial assistance for future students to attend Black Hills State. I extended an invitation to you to become active member of your Alumni Association. We welcome your participation and they know that you will find it satisfying. Graduates of 2019, be phenomenal not forgotten. I offer you my personal congratulations, my respect, my best wishes, and wish everybody a happy holiday season. Thank you."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Thank you Mr. Steve. Please help me in recognizing Dr. Sybian Lessee, Dr. Cristopher Hahn, and Dr. Jonathan Niro for helping provide the music today. Gentlemen thank you."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "We will conclude today's ceremony with the singing of our Alma Mater. The recessional will follow immediately after. Please remain in the bleachers until the graduates and the faculty have exited. Please stand and join us in the singing of our Alma Mater, which is printed on the back of your program."

Laurie Nichols BHSU Interim President "Congratulations graduates, enjoy the rest of your day. Graduates, faculty, and platform party--we will recess now. And I do want to wish you all a very very happy holidays."