Diné College and Navajo Technical University Unite for Celebrated Parade Float
SHIPROCK, N.M., Oct. 4, 2025. For the first time, Diné College and Navajo Technical University (NTU) collaborated to create a single float for the Northern Navajo Nation Fair parade. The float celebrated the fair’s theme, “Families are our Strength,” and highlighted the schools’ shared dedication to family, culture, and community.
The joint project brought together students, staff, and community members from both colleges. The crowd along the parade route cheered loudly as announcers celebrated this new spirit of teamwork between Diné College and NTU. The float featured three prominent figures created by artist Eugene Joe.
From Diné College’s Shiprock campus, Sonja and Kristel led the float’s design and assembly, ensuring the final display reflected their creative vision. They coordinated details such as the overall layout, colors, and cultural elements, with students and volunteers helping bring their ideas to life. NTU contributed pumpkins for the float, showcasing the collaborative and community-driven effort. Patrick Begay, Graphic Designer from the Marketing Department, designed the banner, while the Operations & Maintenance Department assisted by cutting the wooden shapes used in the design. Faculty member Venancio Aragon provided additional artistic support and fine details.
Adding to the excitement, singer Tyra Preston performed along the parade route, creating an energetic and festive atmosphere.
Diné College expressed its gratitude to everyone involved in this historic partnership. The collaboration between Diné College and NTU—walking together as one team—demonstrated a powerful commitment to education, culture, and unity across the Navajo Nation.
