Diné College Crownpoint Center Honors Fall 2025 Graduates with Celebration
CROWNPOINT, NM, Diné College’s Crownpoint Center hosted a congratulatory celebration on Friday, Dec. 5, to honor the achievements of its Fall 2025 graduates. The event, managed by Center Manager Tyrone J. Begay and Academic Success Coach Tyrel Pablo, brought together students, families, and community leaders to recognize the graduates’ hard work and perseverance.
The evening featured remarks and an inspirational story from guest speaker Virginia L. Nelson, a lifelong Crownpoint community resident and program manager for the Office of Diné Youth. Nelson, a former student of what was then Navajo Community College, shared a personal story about mentoring a troubled young man who, against all odds, completed his community service, earned two associate degrees from Diné College, and transformed his life. “You’re on a journey,” Nelson told the graduates. “You got your education. You got your degree… It’s to inspire you and to encourage you that it’s going to take you to achieve, to continue to achieve your goals.”
Tyrel Pablo, Academic Success Coach and a Diné College alumnus, welcomed the attendees and reflected on the graduates’ journey. “There were ups and downs, not just within school, but within personal life, mixed in altogether. But you’ve accomplished,” Pablo said. He later added, “Learn to be patient with yourself, especially learning your journey… You guys were patient with yourself. And the family, too. You guys are patient. All work together, and you guys have one more week to get that degree.”
Tyrone J. Begay provided closing remarks, thanking the American Indian College Fund for the grant that made the celebration possible and acknowledging the community’s role in student success. He highlighted the center’s resources, including a community library and computer lab, and encouraged residents to use the facility. “Our center is here for the community as well… We’re here to help provide that assistance,” Begay stated.
The celebration highlighted the center’s commitment to supporting students and promoting a positive educational environment within the community. Graduates and their families enjoyed a catered meal and received words of encouragement as they prepared for the next chapter in their lives.
