Inauguration
Join us in celebrating the Investiture of President Sheila K. Gestring and a new era of leadership at the University of South Dakota Feb. 10-13.
The Investiture Ceremony of President Gestring takes place Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at 2 p.m. in Aalfs Auditorium, located inside Slagle Hall. Robing begins at 1:30 p.m.
Reception immediately following the ceremony at the Muenster University Center.
Watch the Inauguration live.
Inauguration Week Schedule of Events
Sunday, February 10 | Day of Pride
1 p.m. Men's Basketball: USD vs. Oral Roberts
Wear your red and join us at the Sanford Coyote Sports Center for Coyote basketball. The Vermillion Chamber of Commerce will be the official game day sponsor of this matchup. Alumni, friends and fans are encouraged to attend the game in person or host a watch party in their area.
Monday, February 11 | Day of Service
10 a.m. - 1 p.m. & 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Blood Drive at the USD CSAC Group
The blood drive will be located in the south west corner of Patterson Hall, just east of the Muenster University Center.
11 a.m. - 4 p.m. All Campus Service Activity
The Coyote Community will collect canned goods to support the Vermillion Area food pantry. Cans can be dropped off at the Muenster University Center Pit at the aforementioned time or at the Wagner Alumni Center all week long.
5:15 - 8 p.m. Sioux Falls Alumni Chapter Service Project: The Banquet
Sioux Falls area alumni and friends are encouraged to serve their community by volunteering at the banquet downtown.
Tuesday, February 12 | Day of Giving
Unite for USD! Giving Day will commence at 9:57 a.m. on Feb.12 and conclude at 5 p.m. on Feb. 13. Over the course of these two days, a total of 1862 minutes will be dedicated to support USD priorities. Every gift matters, and we invite you to contribute however you are able. The official giving day website is www.uniteforusd.org.
The student raffle will be drawn at the Unite for USD Giving Day Kick Off at 9:57 a.m. in the Muenster University Center Pit.
Wednesday, February 13 | Inauguration
2 p.m. Installation Celebration
Join us in Aalfs Auditorium to celebrate the investiture of President Gestring. A reception will be held for all attendees at the Muenster University Center immediately following the ceremony. The ceremony will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.
7:30 p.m. Presidential Inauguration Showcase
All are invited to a special concert in Aalfs Auditorium following the inauguration reception. This event is free to attend.
Room & Board
USD has reserved a block of rooms in Vermillion, South Dakota, for those planning an overnight stay. You may reserve a room under the block name USD President Gestring Inaugural.
Rooms will be held until January 29. For additional information or if you require special accommodations, please call 605-658-5641.