Appointment of Kimberlee Williams and Dr. Maggie George to Diné College Board of Regents Confirmed
May 16, 2025
TSAILE, Ariz. – The 25th Navajo Nation Council Naabik’iyati’ Committee has officially confirmed the appointments of Ms. Kimberlee Williams and Dr. Maggie George to the Diné College Board of Regents.
Williams was confirmed to serve to October 2, 2029, and George was confirmed to serve to October 1, 2030, advancing the college’s mission of providing accessible, culturally relevant higher education. The decision reflects the committee’s confidence in their expertise and dedication.
Williams, a proud member of the Navajo Nation, brings extensive experience in Navajo language, cultural preservation, and public service. Her clans are Ashihii (Hopi Salt Clan), born for the Kinlichiinii (Red House Clan). Her maternal grandfather is of the Chishi Diné (Chiricahua Apache) clan, and her paternal grandfather is of the Taachiinii (Red Running Into Water Clan). Williams is married to Lariat Williams and is the mother of two children, Acacia and Bryce Williams.
Williams has devoted her career to preserving Navajo culture and language, enriching the community through educational and leadership roles. Her late father, Lee F. Johnson Sr., was a Vietnam veteran and former Navajo Nation Council Delegate who served for 16 years. Her late grandfather, Fort Johnson of Kaibeto, AZ, was a highly respected Hataali (medicine man) and a nine-night chanter.
Expanding her impact, Williams has excelled in health administration. She served as Secretary/Treasurer for the 638 Self Determination Healthcare Association, which oversees healthcare facilities across the Navajo Nation. She contributed to the Navajo Hopi Health Foundation to increase healthcare access in Flagstaff, AZ, through the Sacred Peaks Health Care Center. Her leadership in public health programs and community advocacy complements her expertise in executive management and project coordination.
“Ms. Williams embodies the values and vision necessary to support Diné College’s mission,” President Buu Nygren said. “Her dedication to promoting opportunity and leadership among our people is inspiring.”
Dr. George, a member of the Navajo Nation and Táchii’nii (Red Running into the Water Clan), holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Policy and Leadership from the University of Kansas, an M.A. in Guidance and Counseling, and a B.A. in Elementary Education from New Mexico Highlands University.
George’s career in higher education spans more than 40 years, including serving as President of Diné College and Executive Director of the White House Initiative on Tribal Colleges and Universities. Her work has focused on policy development, institutional advocacy, and culturally adaptive teaching. George has spearheaded multimillion-dollar initiatives aimed at enhancing tribal college student success, academic programs, and infrastructure.
The Diné College Board of Regents oversees the college’s strategic direction, policy implementation, and commitment to its mission of promoting academic excellence and cultural preservation within the Navajo Nation. Members are chosen for their expertise and dedication to serving the community.
