SDSU President Addresses Racist Video, Launches Investigation

South Dakota State University (SDSU) President Barry Dunn addressed a “painful” situation involving a racist video circulating on social media, promising a thorough investigation. The video, which surfaced on Snapchat on February 28, 2026, featured individuals appearing to be SDSU students using racist language and making threatening remarks.

Details of the Incident

The video was posted to a Snapchat story labeled “SDSU 2026,” which, according to the university, is not officially affiliated with SDSU but features content related to the university. Access to posting on the story requires an SDSU-related email address. The 46-second video, now deleted, reportedly contained racist slurs, disparaging language, and threats of violence against Black people.

University Response and Investigation

President Dunn released an initial statement on March 2, 2026, acknowledging the video as “deeply inappropriate.” A follow-up statement was shared with SDSU students and staff on March 3, 2026, detailing the initiation of a formal investigation.

“While I am limited in what I can share during an active investigation, please grasp that this situation is being handled with the seriousness and the care it warrants,” Dunn wrote in the statement. “We will continue working with the appropriate university offices to fully investigate and respond in a manner consistent with university policies and law.”

Commitment to a Respectful Community

President Dunn reaffirmed SDSU’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and respectful environment for all members of the university community. He emphasized that actions or language that demean, exclude, or threaten others are unacceptable and have no place at SDSU.

“Retaliation of any kind against individuals being investigated or those who report concerns, participate in an investigation or express their perspectives in good faith will not be tolerated,” Dunn stated. “This expectation is essential to maintaining trust and accountability within our university.”

Support Resources Available

SDSU is providing support resources for students and staff impacted by the video. Students are encouraged to connect with SDSU Counseling Services, while benefits-eligible employees have access to confidential support through their Employee Assistance Program.

Background on President Dunn

Barry H. Dunn was appointed as the 20th president of South Dakota State University in April 2016, and is the fourth alumnus to lead the institution. More information about President Dunn can be found on the SDSU website.