DICKINSON STATE UNIVERSITY dickinsonstate.edu SMALL COMMUNITY BIG OPPORTUNITY CELEBRATING THE PAST, LOOKING TO THE FUTURE By: Salena Loveland chain that incorporates the names and years served of all 12 of the University presidents. It is a beautiful symbol of OSU's history When asked what it is like being the president of Dickinson State at this important time. Dr. Thomas Mitzel said, "It is an honor to be president at an institution with such a rich and vibrant history as DSU. To be at the University during this momentous occasion as we celebrate 100 existence and pedagogy, while simultaneously planning for years of the coming 100 years, is irreplaceable and I am deeply humbled to be a part of the beauty and de Blue Hawk community. The history and future of the University cannot be viewed apart from its connection to ond close ties with the 24, 1918, the Dickinson Normal School teachers college, now known as Dickinson State University (DSU) welcomed 104 students to a career in education. Two years later, 18 of these students would make up the first graduating class. These students charted the path thatgreater Dickinson community. Dickinson State's inception 100 years after the school was established, culminates in depended on the generous support of the community. a centennial commencement celebration. More than one which was proud to be part of the school's creation. The hundred and eighty students are eligible to celebrate the relationship between DSU and the surrounding community accomplishment of completing their degree programs at ains. "The strong and meaningful relationship the the spring commencement ceremony Saturday, May 12. 2018, in Scott Gymnasium. University realizes with the city of Dickinson has helped the institution remain a top educational organization in which to educate young minds for the coming generations." said Dr. Mitzel. Some things have changed over the past 100 years. The first 104 students attended class sessions free of charge paying only for room and board. Classes were held at Dickinson High School because the college did not y have any buildings of its own. Of course, there were also the changes that naturally happen with each passing generation: fashion, technology and communication. Commencement is always a special time of reflection what has been accomplished and of looking forward to new possibilities. In this centennial year, we celebrate the past and look forward with anticipation to what the future holds. Dickinson State has deep historical roots in the communit and continues to serve the region by providing access to high quality educational programming Join us Saturday, May 12, 2018 at 10 a.m, in Scott Gymnasium as we celebrate this historic commencement. Despite the differences brought about by time, many things are the same as they were in 1918. The pioneering students entered the doors of an institution of higher learning eager to begin a new journey. They undoubtedly had some apprehensions, too. They made new friends studied long hours, and broadened their understanding of the world around them. One hundred years later, DSUs graduating class of 2018 has certainly had similar experiences. During the commencement ceremon this spring. President Mitzel will be wearing a new presidential medallion to commemorate this historic year The Centennial Medallion hangs from a