ALBUQUERQUE — Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and First Lady Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren joined Gates Millennium Scholars and national changemakers on December 5 for a powerful Scholars Equity Network gathering dedicated to uplifting and mobilizing one of the most influential scholarship communities in the country.
The event celebrated the far-reaching impact of the Gates Millennium Scholars Program, which opened doors for 20,050 scholars from low income and minority communities. Speakers reflected on how this national network continues to drive personal and professional growth, civic participation, and economic opportunity through ongoing collaboration and mentorship.
First Lady Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren shared her own journey receiving the Gates Millennium Scholarship as a student from the Navajo Nation, pursuing higher education, serving in the Arizona Legislature, and becoming Apache County Attorney. She emphasized the importance of staying connected, giving back, and reigniting a spirit of service among Gates alumni.
Other speakers, including For Kinship founder Amy Denet Deal, showcased community driven work from COVID 19 relief initiatives to Native fashion mentorship and youth empowerment. A law professor and longtime mentor emphasized the necessity of strong support systems and intentional mentorship, especially for first generation students navigating higher education.
The gathering also highlighted the “Pay It Forward Accelerator,” which received 54 applications, selected 14 finalists, and raised $45,000 for community projects focused on diabetes care, literacy, AI coaching, mental health, language preservation, and STEM access.
President Nygren praised the program’s legacy and the powerful network it creates.
“When we invest in our scholars, we invest in the future strength of our Nations. The Gates community shows what is possible when opportunity meets determination. I am proud to stand with our Navajo and Native scholars who continue to excel, lead, and uplift the next generation.”
