Why Priya Saxena's graduation is making headlines in South Dakota

UPDATED: May 16, 2025 02:34 IST

28-year-old Priya Saxena, an Indian doctoral student targeted for deportation by South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s Department of Homeland Security, walked across the stage to receive her doctorate to rousing applause. Across the state, Noem herself took the stage to accept an honorary doctorate, only to be greeted with protests and signs reading “No Honor for Noem.”

Saxena, who earned both a doctorate in chemical and biological engineering and a master’s in chemical engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, has been on the Department of Homeland Security’s deportation list since last month. But thanks to a federal order, she was able to graduate before any action could be taken.

“The fact that she received her doctorate and master’s degrees at the same time Noem was being honored rubs salt in the wound for the department,” said Saxena’s attorney, Jim Leach, in court filings, as quoted by British newspaper Daily Mail.

Saxena’s immigration status became the subject of controversy after DHS moved to revoke her student visa over a 2021 misdemeanor charge — failing to move over for flashing yellow lights. Her visa, valid until 2027, was declared void despite her transparency about the minor violation in her subsequent visa application.

Saxena and her attorney filed a lawsuit against Noem and DHS, arguing that the offense was not grounds for deportation. A federal judge agreed earlier this month, granting a temporary restraining order preventing DHS from taking action until a May 13 court hearing.

The lawsuit emphasized that Saxena “has not been involved in any political activity, has not attended any demonstrations, and has not made any statements about controversial public matters.” Still, she became a symbol for international students facing heightened scrutiny under the Trump-era immigration crackdown revived by Noem’s department.

While Saxena was being hailed as “Dr. Priya Saxena” in Rapid City, Noem was facing loud protests at Dakota State University — her alma mater — where she received an honorary doctorate in public service.

The contrast couldn’t have been starker.

One protester outside the ceremony venue held a sign that read: “A doctorate in graft I could understand,” while chants of “No honor for Noem” echoed in the streets.

Noem, who served as Secretary of Homeland Security during the Trump administration and now again under his revived leadership, has spearheaded what some call the nation’s largest mass deportation effort.

“She’s been trying to deport the very students this university claims to support,” said a demonstrator outside Dakota State. “We’re proud of our international students. We’re scared for them now.”