College of Education Pinning Ceremony

Photo collage of students at the College of Education Pinning Ceremony. The left photo is a student giving a speech at the podium, the top right photo is a professor putting the pin on a student during the ceremony, and the bottom right photo contains the ceremony pins lined up in rows on a table.

The College of Education Pinning Ceremony is a special recognition for our undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Teaching graduates and Graduate-Level Initial Licensure graduates. This time-honored tradition is held each semester to celebrate the achievements of our students as they enter the teaching profession.


Upcoming College of Education Pinning Ceremony

There are two May 2026 Pinning ceremonies:

Initial Teaching Licensures will occur on Friday, May 8, 2026

  • Date: Friday, May 8, 2026
  • Time: 1:45pm - 3:45pm
  • Location: Minnesota State University, Mankato CSU Ballroom

Apprenticeship, ELE Online BS & MS Initial Licensure, and Special Ed Graduate Initial or Add on Licensure Programs will occur on Saturday, May 9, 2026

  • Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
  • Time: 8:45am - 10:45am
  • Location: Minnesota State University, Mankato CSU Ballroom

Student Check-In

Just before the ceremony, teacher candidates should pick up their name card from the check-in table at the entrance of the CSU Ballroom. A volunteer will be available to assist students at the check-in table.

Arrival and Seating

The CSU Ballroom doors open at fifteen minutes before the start of the ceremony. Light refreshments are served and available to guests.

With the exception of seats marked “Reserved,” seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Students are welcome to sit with their guests.

Pinning Ceremony

The start time for the Pinning Ceremony will be announced soon. The Pinning ceremony is held in the University CSU Ballroom.


Livestream Viewing

We will be hosting a livestream of the College of Education Pinning Ceremony on Friday, May 8. Viewers are invited to join us from anywhere with an internet connection to celebrate and honor our graduates.

The live stream link will be available here as we arrive closer to the date.


Invitations

Bachelor of Science in Teaching candidates and Graduate Level Initial Licensure candidates are invited to attend the Pinning Ceremony. Students will receive an invitation email from the College. For more information, contact the OFIE office at 507-389-1517.


Attire

The Pinning Ceremony is a separate ceremony from the commencement ceremony. Students should not wear academic regalia to the Pinning Ceremony. No commencement caps or gowns should be worn for Pinning. Instead, business casual attire is recommended.


Parking

Parking on campus will be free on the day of Commencement with the exception of Lots 8, 9 and 11. Refer to the University's parking information and maps link for further information.

Parking Maps and Information


View Previous Pinning Photo Albums

Relive the special moments from past Pinning Ceremonies! Browse our photo albums to view and download memories of graduates, faculty, family, and friends.

COE Photo Albums


University Commencement Details

Many students participating in the Pinning Ceremony will also be attending the University Commencement Ceremony. For details regarding the Commencement Ceremony, visit the University Commencement details website.

University Commencement Details