Diné College Prioritizes Accessibility and Student Belonging at Recent Professional Development Series
ANETH, Utah. – On Thursday, February 26, 2026, the Diné College Aneth Microsite hosted a transformative professional development series dedicated to accessibility, the event brought together faculty, staff, and students to align with the College’s strategic goal of fostering a more accessible and inclusive campus environment.
The hybrid event, which attracted an impressive turnout of 35 participants both in-person and online, focused on breaking down the barriers students face in higher education.
Expert Insights on Comprehensive Access
The morning session featured Letoy Harrison, a former employee and consultant, who led an intentional discussion on the multifaceted nature of accessibility. Harrison guided the audience through critical areas including:
Academic and Financial Access: Navigating the hurdles of curriculum and funding.
Geographical and Disability Access: Addressing physical and distance-based barriers.
Equity and Cultural Support: Ensuring language and identity are respected within the institution.
Harrison’s session moved beyond theory, providing hands-on training and real-world scenarios to help staff and faculty empathize with the daily challenges students encounter.
A Voice from the Student Body
The afternoon featured Dayhenoa Yazzie, reigning Miss Utah Navajo 2025-2026 and a current Diné College student. Yazzie shared her personal journey through the College’s athletics and degree programs, emphasizing the vital role that a “sense of belonging” plays in student retention.
Yazzie challenged the audience to meet students halfway and remain accountable for their needs. She specifically addressed the stigma surrounding mental health, advocating for a shift away from “get over it” mentalities toward a culture of mindfulness and holistic support. Her session concluded with a self-reflection activity, prompting departments to evaluate how they can better prioritize students in their daily operations.
“We are thrilled with the turnout and the depth of conversation and excitement each presenter shared,” Winifred Jumbo, Director of External Campuses noted. “This is just the midway point. We are committed to continuing this series later this year, with a focus on campus health, wellness, and holistic integration.”
The event was made possible through the coordination and support of the Crownpoint Center, Window Rock Center, and Newcomb and Aneth Microsite staff. The event was funded by the Cultivating Native Student Success (CNSS) Grant from the American Indian College Fund (AICF).
