ABERDEEN, S.D. – Northern State University has decided to cancel the 105th annual NSU Gypsy Day Parade, as a precautionary measure against the COVID-19 virus.
The decision was made after careful consideration, involving discussions with state and local health care officials. In addition, Northern reached out to select parade participants, and also factored in the recent suspension of the 2020 college athletics season due to COVID-19.
“We took our time to determine the best course of action, and ultimately decided canceling the parade was the right decision for the health and safety of our campus and the community,” said NSU President Dr. Tim Downs.
But Downs assured the parade will be back stronger than ever in 2021.
“We’re already looking forward to next year,” Downs said. “We hope everyone in Wolves Country is ready to help us make 2021 the biggest parade in the history of Northern.”
On-campus homecoming activities will still be held the week of Sept. 21, following SDBOR and CDC guidelines. This year’s theme is “Howling 2020s,” For more information, visit the homecoming webpage or contact the NSU Student Affairs office at 605-626-3007.
About Northern State University
Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. Northern also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and, soon, an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $120 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.