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Melissa Meidinger, Watertown Regional Director of the Small Business Development Center, will deliver �ֲ���ý-Watertown's commencement address to the university’s undergraduate students on Saturday, April 25, 2026. The commencement ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church.

With more than 25 years of experience in leadership development, higher education and organizational effectiveness, Meidinger brings academic insight and practical expertise to every session. Meidinger received her Master of Business Administration and Doctorate in Leadership from the University of Sioux Falls. She currently serves as regional director of the Small Business Development Center in Watertown and teaches at �ֲ���ý and the University of Sioux Falls. She is known for translating leadership theory into actionable strategies that drive real results.

Meidinger plans to speak to the graduates about the pursuit of happiness. “Happiness doesn’t always follow success, but success always follows happiness,” Meidinger said. “And happiness comes from really understanding what your core values are and understanding the impact of family, friends, faith and meaningful work in your life.”

For more information on �ֲ���ý’s commencement, visit .

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About �ֲ���ý

Founded in 1936 by the Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery, �ֲ���ý is South Dakota's only Catholic, Benedictine institution of higher education. Located along the bluffs of the Missouri River in Yankton, with additional locations in Watertown and Sioux Falls, �ֲ���ý offers undergraduate and graduate degrees focusing on student and alumni success in high-demand fields such as health sciences, education, criminal justice, business, accounting, recreation management, and more. A community of learners in the Benedictine tradition, �ֲ���ý emphasizes academic excellence and develops well-rounded students with intellectual competence, professional and personal skills and moral, spiritual and social values. To learn more, visit .