President's Message | Summer 2026

Each spring on our beautiful campus, commencement provides me with one of the most meaningful moments of the year.

It is truly an honor to shake the hands of more than 2,000 graduates as they cross the stage and step into the future. It is a tradition that is as old as our university and especially relevant this year as we celebrate America 250 and the impact SDSU has had in shaping our state and region.

The value of the degree the student earned is often described in terms of workforce readiness and job preparedness. And upon graduation, SDSU graduates are certainly ready to enter the workforce and immediately contribute to their professions, strengthen their communities and improve lives. They are well educated and well trained, and their impact is real and important. 

But SDSU is more than just a place that provides job training. There is something more, much more, and equally important, that defines the SDSU experience and its graduates. It is the development of individuals of high character who are prepared not only to succeed but to lead with determination and purpose.

SDSU students are afforded many character-building experiences and opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. Students embrace, lead and continue to define our deepest traditions like Hobo Day, the Collegian, Little International and meaningful events like State A Thon, international nights and Wetu Wacipi. They are exposed to development and leadership programs in places like Lead State, the Mike Huether Public Service Academy and student organizations within academic programs, which provide them opportunities to compete and win competitions throughout the United States against much larger universities.

Participation in student government also provides our students with the opportunity for personal and professional development. Deeply involved in the governance of our university, these student leaders gain firsthand experience in decision-making, advocacy, compromise and service. Many have gone on to serve meaningful roles in public service, continuing a legacy of leadership that extends far beyond our campus.

At SDSU, students learn to think critically, explore new and emerging concepts, analyze situations and engage with complex problem solving. We strive to create environments where individuals listen, learn and seek to understand and find common ground to move forward in today’s complex world.

These experiences challenge them in ways they may not have imagined. They require them to innovate, network and embrace change. To enhance their abilities to communicate and work in a team — preparing them to become the leaders of tomorrow in businesses and organizations large and small, in communities near and far. These outcomes build 21st-century citizens who are prepared to do important work in exciting, dynamic fields, and enrich the places they call home.

It is my privilege to serve as president of the state’s premier land-grant university, and I am so proud of our graduates, as I hope you are. They represent the next generation of leaders: well-trained and of high character, ready to contribute and make a positive difference as our nation moves forward into the next 250 years.

Thank you for being part of the SDSU family. I hope to see you on campus this summer or at one of our many alumni events.

Go Big. Go Blue. Go Jacks.

Sincerely,

Barry H. Dunn
President