U.S. News
Kristi Noem Confronted by Angry Protesters During Honorary Doctorate Ceremony
By Jake Beardslee · May 12, 2025
Noem Faces Backlash at Dakota State Commencement
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem encountered vocal opposition during Dakota State University’s commencement ceremony in Madison, South Dakota, where she was awarded an honorary doctorate in public service. The event drew protesters critical of her role in the Trump administration’s immigration policies, which they claim violate constitutional rights. Morgan Matzen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Protesters Condemn Noem’s Immigration Policies
Protesters, including local resident Susan Wicks, criticized Noem's involvement in deportation efforts, telling Dakota News Now: "She’s currently right now violating the constitution, deporting people to foreign detainment centers without any due process." Morgan Matzen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Protester: Noem Is “Tool of the Trump Administration”
In further comments to Dakota News Now, fellow protester John Nelson echoed those concerns, calling Noem “a tool of the Trump administration” and accusing her of “implementing policies that go against the Constitution of the United States.” René DeAnda / Unsplash
University Accused of Ignoring Community Voices
Wicks also slammed the university’s decision to honor Noem without input from students or faculty: "They didn’t listen to the town, the faculty or their students, and we think that’s abhorrent." Morgan Matzen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
University President Defends Noem’s Record
Despite the backlash, DSU President José-Marie Griffiths praised Noem’s contributions to the university during her time as South Dakota governor. "She was always ready to listen to our proposals... and was eager to move forward to support those initiatives," Griffiths said. Morgan Matzen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Graduate Rejects Protest but Criticizes Honor
Some students, like MBA graduate Max Lerchen, disagreed with the selection but chose to attend anyway. "This is a degree that I’ve worked hard for," he told Dakota News Now, adding that he wouldn’t allow Noem’s presence to "have power over [his] accomplishment." DHSgov / Wikimedia
Claims of Locked Buildings Surface Amid Protest
Others boycotted the event entirely, and some students claimed they were locked out of buildings where protest materials were stored—though Lerchen believed this was not deliberate. Morgan Matzen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images