WINDOW ROCK — Under the white canopy of Navajo Square, hundreds of Navajo people showed up for the 73rd Miss Navajo Nation Pageant Coronation with eagerness to know who was going to be the next Miss Navajo Nation for 2025-2026 on Saturday, September 6.
Cameras were stationed at every corner of the Navajo Square tent at the Navajo Nation Fairgrounds. As the evening drew closer to the crowning of the new Miss Navajo Nation, attendees sat at the edge of their seats as the announcers listed contest winners from this year’s pageant:
- Best Sheep Butcherer: Taneesha Francis
- Best Traditional Food: Eriona Tapahe
- Best Essay: Eriona Tapahe
- Miss Congeniality: Taneesha Francis
- Best Skill and Talent (Contemporary): Eriona Tapahe
- Best Skill and Talent (Traditional): Taneesha Francis
Many viewers and visitors came from near and far, where most have been following the pageant contests since the sheep butchering contest on Monday, September 1. Also in attendance were many royalties, who had the opportunity to introduce themselves and share a few words to the four contestants while former Miss Navajo Nations were acknowledged in the audience.
Remarks were made by Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, First Lady Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren, Vice President Richelle Montoya and Speaker Crystalyne Curley.
Additionally, on behalf of the sponsorship from Navajo Arts and Crafts Enterprise, both First Lady and President Nygren gifted outgoing 2024-2025 Miss Navajo Nation Ranisha Begay a coral squash blossom and accessories as a gift of gratitude for Begay’s reign.
“The Miss Navajo Nation pageant honors our culture and strength. To the four contestants, your courage and dedication are inspiring. This journey isn’t easy, but no matter who is crowned, each of you is a true winner,” President Nygren said. “Thank you for representing our Navajo people, and honoring your parents, masaanis and cheiis.”
As the evening ended, the Nation stood loud and proud as the newly titled Miss Navajo Nation was announced and crowned.
Congratulations to 2025-2026 Miss Navajo Nation, Camille Uentillie, and congratulations to First Runner Up: Eriona Tapahe, Second Runner Up: Taneesha Francis, and Third Runner Up: Cora Hubbard.
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