ST. MICHAELS, Ariz. – 28 Cardinal students at St. Michaels Indian High School were encouraged to keep thriving and striving by Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren as they leave their nest of four years.
Friends, family, faculty, and President Nygren gathered in the SMIS gym to celebrate the student’s triumphs and also to be recognized for their support of the students.
“I know many students endured some hard times,” said President Nygren. “They get through those tough times with family. Their parents, grandparents, guardians, whoever it may be, these students preserved with people who supported them daily.”
A newer and beloved commencement ceremony tradition is the student receives three roses to give to people they want to honor them with. Hugs and tears flowed freely as students, family, and faculty were recognized.
Students also got to share their favorite teacher, who brought them through their academic careers, and their friends at school, who kept them grounded.
President Nygren watched the love and admiration the school faculty and families had for each student as their names got called to receive their diplomas.
“Some of these schools are extremely small; 28 students are graduating,” said President Nygren. “But the love and appreciation for each student is anything but small, and these students have an entire community standing behind them, celebrating one of many achievements.”
President Nygren gave a closing speech of the commencement ceremony and knew each student leaving high school would continue to carry their teachings from school with them for the rest of their life.
“Cardinals have always been great individuals,” said President Nygren. “So continue to climb that educational ladder. When you succeed, we all succeed.”
###
