ABERDEEN, S.D. - On Saturday, six Northern State University graduates will earn their degree through a collaborative teach-out agreement between Northern State University and Presentation College.
Daiova Manuel Tejeda is one of the six graduates defying the odds. Nationwide, only 47.1% of students re-enrolled at another institution after a closure, and only 36.8% earned a degree.
"The assistance provided by the Registrar's Office, particularly by Peggy Hallstrom, played a significant role in ensuring a smooth transition and timely graduation," said Daiova Manuel Tejeda, one of the six graduating students. "Leaving behind familiar faces and starting a new chapter at a different university was daunting, but it was also a chance to embrace change and forge my own path. Looking back, I am grateful for the support of my peers, professors, and advisors who helped me navigate the transition and discover my place within the university community.”
In fall 2023, 21 Presentation College students enrolled at Northern State University, and on Saturday, the first six will graduate and become Northern State University alumni:
- Timothy English from Westminster, Colorado, graduates with a BA in criminal justice
- Samuel Garner from Arvada, Colorado, graduates with a BS in business administration
- Daiova Manuel Tejeda from Veracruz, Mexico, graduates with a BS in management
- Antony Martinez from Aberdeen, South Dakota, graduates with a BS in biology
- Kylon Miller from Fresno, California, graduates with a BA in communication studies
- Captain Whitlock from Honolulu, Hawaii, graduates with a BS in psychology
“All at Northern wanted to help do whatever we could to make completion of a comparable NSU degree a reality for the PC students,” said Peggy Hallstrom, Northern State University registrar. “It was a little like a puzzle, working with faculty and advisors to customize a plan for each student to achieve their goal.”
As a Northern student, Daiova became involved by working on campus in the Admissions Office. "We're very proud of the persistence Daiova showed during her transition to Northern. In the short time she was here, Daiova had a significant impact on the Northern campus community, and we were truly blessed to have her as part of the Admissions team. We wish her and all the graduates the best," said Northern State University Director of Admissions Layton Cooper.
Pictured: Daiova Manuel Tejeda will graduate on schedule from Northern State University this spring, thanks to the teach-out agreement with Presentation College and the support of Northern staff, faculty, and students.