NASCHITTI, N.M. – Carissa Wood, now administrator for Naschitti Community Governance, began her journey as a community volunteer. For years, Wood, originally from Tuba City, Ariz., dedicated herself to understanding the needs of Naschitti’s 800 residents, becoming a key figure in local development.
Now, as a full-time Navajo Nation employee and community advocate, she’s leading essential infrastructure projects under the chapter’s LGA-certified commission government.
Wood has been deeply committed to improving the lives of her neighbors.
“I see our kids playing with no worries,” she said. “It’s rewarding for the elders to get electricity. You see them flip the switch. And they’re like, ‘Oh God.’ And the tears come.”
Naschitti’s unique layout consists of four zones—Halgai, Libatah, Biitá’dah, and Biiaghaadi—covering homes and seasonalsheep camps spread across the San Juan Basin and the Choosghai Mountains.
With firsthand knowledge of who needs electricity, water, and other essentials, Wood stays late to meet the needs of residents.
“I have to chase her home sometimes because she’s at work after hours,” said Rhonda Herbert, commission president. “I commend her for all her work.”
Wood’s dedication has inspired Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, who recently signed a $4.9 million ARPA funding allocation for Naschitti’s $6.2 million San Juan Lateral project. This two-mile waterline will triple the water supply for Naschitti.
“Naschitti is going to be the place to be,” said President Nygren. “I want to congratulate you, Carissa, as a humble leader…for being such a good manager for your chapter commission.”
Through Wood’s leadership, Naschitti is poised for a brighter future, serving as a model for Navajo chapters across the Nation.
