TSAILE, Ariz. – On Fri., May 10, 118 students received their diplomas, 114 received certificates, and nine will be adult education graduates.
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren tells recent graduates to distance themselves from the “naysayers.”
“It is my honor to address you in this special place, the geographic heart of the Navajo Nation,” said President Nygren. “A place where the foundation of higher education was established that reflects our core values as Diné.”
Being living proof of talent on the reservation, Shelly Lowe, Chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities of the United States, told the Navajo students before her they could be anyone they want to be, just like herself.
“I’m a product of the Rez,” said Lowe. “I am a product of Ganado public school.”
On stage with President Nygren was Speaker Crystalyne Curley, shaking each graduate’s hand during commencement.
After students had diplomas in hand and hugging and talking with peers, President Nygren looked out to the graduates and knew the Navajo Nation would be in good hands, understanding the perseverance and challenges that each one that stood before him endured and overcame during their academic journey.
“This special place has become a beacon of our language, teachings, and culture in the 21st century,” said President Nygren. “The proof of its success is before me today in all 114 of you.”
President Nygren reinforced that dreams are within reach, but it takes a lot of self-dedication.
“Among you today is the future President of the Navajo Nation, the next Governor of Arizona, the next astronaut, the world’s greatest and most prolific weavers and moccasin makers,” said President Nygren. “And, of course, what matters the most is always just being you.”
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