Navajo Nation Celebrates Academic Excellence at the 2025 Chief Manuelito Scholarship Awards Ceremony
Flagstaff, Ariz., July 25, 2025. The Navajo Nation gathered today at the Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort to honor the achievements of 137 exceptional high school graduates at the 2025 Chief Manuelito Scholarship Awards Ceremony.
This annual event celebrated the academic excellence, cultural pride, and leadership potential of Navajo students while reaffirming the Nation’s commitment to empowering its youth through education.
The day began with an invocation by Mr. Cordell Shortey, Navajo Nation Contracting Officer, which set the tone for reflection and gratitude. The Honorable Eleanor Shirley, Interim Chief Justice of the Navajo Nation Supreme Court, delivered a heartfelt welcome address, emphasizing the significance of the Chief Manuelito Scholarship as a symbol of the Nation’s investment in its youth. “We gather to celebrate the accomplishments of our children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews,” she said. “Their academic journeys represent not only personal triumphs but the collective strength of the Navajo Nation. Each student’s success reflects our shared commitment to preserving our values, uplifting our communities, and shaping a brighter future for our people.”
Dr. Crystal Tulley-Cordova, Principal Hydrologist for the Navajo Nation Department of Water Resources, shared her “My Journey to a Ph.D.” message on earning a Ph.D. in hydrology. “Water is life,” she affirmed, recounting how her passion for water resources began with a fourth-grade science fair project and led to a career dedicated to safeguarding the Nation’s future. She encouraged students to embrace their roots while forging new connections in their academic and professional pursuits. “This world needs you,” she said.
“Your education and experiences will benefit not only you but also your communities and the world.” She added, “Surely critical, because where you’re going, you’re becoming someone that doesn’t come from where you come from, and knowing this ties you to other people.”
Rose Graham, Department Manager of the Office of Navajo Nation Scholarship and Financial Assistance, outlined the rigorous criteria for the Chief Manuelito Scholarship, which includes coursework in Navajo language and history, as well as exceptional academic performance.
She reminded students of the importance of meeting deadlines and taking ownership of their applications. “Students should know their census number, Social Security number, and complete their applications,” she said. “Failure to do so could result in missed deadlines and complications during the verification process.” She also emphasized the importance of timeliness, saying, “If we had more funding, we would remain open year-round.”
The Honorable Dr. Buu Van Nygren, President of the Navajo Nation, delivered a congratulatory message, quoting Chief Manuelito’s famous words, “Education is the ladder.” He reminded students of their responsibility to uplift their people while preserving their cultural identity.
“Today, we honor not just your academic achievements but your commitment to our heritage and values,” he said. “Growing up in Red Mesa, Arizona, I was inspired by Chief Manuelito’s teachings. This scholarship shaped my path, and I am committed to ensuring that future generations have the same opportunities to succeed without losing their connection to our Navajo identity.”
The Honorable Crystalyne Curley, Speaker of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, also addressed the audience, invoking Chief Manuelito’s teachings. “Education is the ladder. Tell our people to take it,” she said. She praised the scholars for their dedication and hard work, adding, “Today is your day. You’ve earned this through your dedication and hard work.” She further emphasized, “We believe in building a future where our scholars can pursue success without having to choose between it and their home. You are the future of the Navajo Nation, and we walk beside you every step of the way.”
Former Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez delivered a powerful message, urging students to carry forward the traditional teachings. “Education opens doors for our youth and empowers them to build strong futures, not just for themselves but for our entire Nation,” he said. “We must never forget our identity or the teachings of our elders as we pursue higher learning.
It is our responsibility to walk forward with both knowledge and culture in hand.” Reflecting on the legacy of Chief Manuelito, he added, “Our ancestors never gave up. They prayed for us, fought for us, and envisioned a better future for the Navajo people. You are the realization of that vision.”
A highlight of the event was a moving recitation of D.J. Nez’s poem, Hastiin Ch’ilhaajiin, by Chief Manuelito Scholar Wesley Dale Reid and his brother, Alexander D. Reid. The performance paid tribute to the resilience of the Navajo people and the sacrifices of their ancestors, inspiring attendees to honor their heritage through education and leadership.
Reflecting on the performance, Vice President Richelle Montoya said, “This recitation is a reminder of the strength of our ancestors and the importance of education in achieving success.”
The Chief Manuelito Scholarship, established in the 1980s, recognizes students who excel academically while preserving the Navajo language and culture. This year’s recipients met rigorous requirements and demonstrated exceptional dedication to their education and communities.
As the ceremony concluded, Nez inspired the audience with a vision for the future: “One day, I believe we will see a Navajo leader in the U.S. House of Representatives—or even the White House. The first peoples of this continent deserve a seat at the table, and it could be one of you.”
