South Dakota State University and the Lake Area Technical Institute are expanding their partnership by allowing Lake Area Tech students to attend Jackrabbits football games for free this season. The Jacks have seven home games in 2019, beginning Saturday at 6 p.m. against Long Island University.

“We have a wonderful partnership with Lake Area Tech and the opportunity to offer its students the ability to attend Jackrabbit football games only enhances that relationship,” said SDSU President Barry Dunn. “Jackrabbit football is a not only a campus and community celebration, but it reaches people throughout the state, regionally and nationally. Extending our partnership with LATI beyond degree programs and the classroom allows students from both institutions a campus life experience together and the chance to cheer the Jackrabbits to victory.”

Students from LATI, like South Dakota State University students, can gain access to Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium by showing a valid student ID card at the gate.

SDSU and LATI launched the Opening Doors Initiative in August 2017 to allow LATI students who earn associate degrees to transfer credits and work toward a SDSU bachelor’s degree. Currently, the two institutions offer nearly 30 stackable degree options.

The Jacks start the home slate with four consecutive games. Following Saturday’s game, SDSU will host Drake, Sept. 14; Southern Utah, Sept. 21; and Southern Illinois for Hobo Day Oct. 5. Other home games are: North Dakota State, Oct. 26; Illinois State, Nov. 9; and Northern Iowa, Nov. 16.