Diné College Celebrates Its Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony
May 09, 2025
SHIPROCK, N.M. – Diné College proudly celebrated its Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the South Campus in Shiprock, marking another point in the institution’s history as the first tribal college across the Navajo Nation. The event highlighted the achievements of graduates, as students, faculty, alums, and families came together to honor this significant occasion.
The ceremony opened with Acting President Glennita Haskey recognizing the institution’s deep roots in Navajo philosophy and the remarkable accomplishments of its students. “Every graduate sitting in front of you has gone through a journey of understanding their culture, their language, and their ways of life,” Haskey said. “This is a celebration of their hard work, determination, and the resilience of the Navajo people.”
Commencement Speaker Russell Begaye, former President of the Navajo Nation, inspired the crowd by encouraging graduates to face challenges with perseverance and pride. “The blood of the Navajo people runs through your veins,” Begaye said. “Never give up. No matter what, you are the next leaders, artists, scientists, and educators who will carry this Nation forward.” His words highlighted the theme of cultural legacy and personal tenacity throughout the proceedings.
Provost Dr. Alysa Landry addressed the graduates, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning. “My one piece of advice for you is to keep learning,” Landry said. “Don’t collect diplomas for their sake. Instead, learn for the joy of discovering something new and carry that passion with you throughout your lives.”
Danielle Lewis, a graduating student earning an Associate of Arts in Education, shared her gratitude and excitement about the day’s celebration. “Being a student at Diné College has given me the chance not only to pursue my education but also to connect deeply with my culture,” Lewis said. I’m thankful for the support of my teachers, my family, and this community that has helped me reach this milestone.”
During the ceremony, graduates earned a variety of degrees and certifications, including two master’s degrees, 48 bachelor’s degrees, and 95 associate degrees. Four students, including Deelilah Harvey, a dual-credit student graduating with a certificate in Public Health and a concurrent high school diploma, achieved perfect 4.0 GPAs.
Throughout the ceremony, Diné College’s unique role as a steward of Navajo culture was celebrated. The event included remarks on the duality of the curriculum, which integrates Navajo teachings with academic rigor, and the institution’s ongoing commitment to preserving the philosophy of “Sa’ah Naagháí Bik’eh Hózhóón.” Acting President Haskey expressed gratitude for the college’s faculty and leadership for embedding these values within its academic programs.
The alumni induction ceremony, led by Dr. Crystal Cook, Director of Tribal Housing Research and Secretary of the Alumni Association, officially welcomed the Class of 2025 into the extended Diné College family.
PHOTO CREDIT:
Diné College Marketing & Communications Department
Diné College Operations & Maintenance
