Gallup, N.M. — Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren met with the Ramah Navajo School Board (RNSB) to sign two important documents that will help strengthen educational infrastructure and improve essential services for the Ramah Navajo community.
The first document expresses presidential support for the Ramah Navajo School Board to serve as its own fiscal agent, allowing the organization to directly acquire and administer New Mexico Capital Outlay funding. By reducing administrative barriers, this action helps streamline the funding process and accelerates the delivery of critical infrastructure projects that benefit students and the surrounding community.
“The Ramah Navajo School Board has a long history of advocating for its students and community,” said President Nygren. “Supporting local leadership and reducing unnecessary red tape allows important projects to move forward more efficiently. When we invest in education and infrastructure, we invest in the future of our Navajo children.”
President Nygren also signed a second letter addressed to the Navajo Nation Office of Management and Budget and the Navajo Nation Division of Community Development requesting an extension of the encumbrance deadline for Sihasin-funded drinking water system improvements. Extending the deadline will ensure the allocated funds remain available so the project can be completed without losing critical financial support.
Founded in 1970, the Ramah Navajo School Board is an independent nonprofit organization established by community leaders who worked tirelessly to create educational opportunities for Navajo students. What began with classes held in tents has grown into Pine Hill Schools, a fully accredited institution that has graduated more than 750 students and continues to serve families throughout the Ramah Navajo community.
During the visit, President Nygren met with school board leadership, Ramah Chapter officials, Human Resources Director Alvin Rafelito, Deputy Director Brenda Jymison, and other community representatives to reaffirm the Navajo Nation’s commitment to supporting satellite communities through strategic partnerships and collaboration.
The signing ceremony reflects the Office of the President and Vice President’s ongoing commitment to strengthening educational opportunities, expanding infrastructure, and ensuring every Navajo community has access to the resources needed to succeed.
The administration will continue working alongside the Ramah Navajo School Board and Navajo Nation departments to advance future projects, pursue additional funding opportunities, and support long-term investments in water infrastructure, broadband, and community development.
