Diné College Summer Institute Program Prepares Arizona Class of 2026 Students for College
TSAILE, Ariz., Diné College hosted its 2026 Summer Institute from May 25, 2026, through June 26, 2026, at its main campus in Tsaile, Arizona, welcoming Arizona high school seniors to prepare for college through learning rooted in Navajo educational philosophy. The five-week program served 22 students from the Class of 2026, supporting their growth in college readiness, confidence, independence, cultural identity, and campus connection.
The Summer Institute is designed to support incoming first-time students in their transition to higher education and to ensure they are equipped for college success. Throughout the program, students built academic preparation, a strong sense of belonging, and meaningful ties to community. The program also facilitates meaningful connections with staff, giving students the guidance they need to develop academic plans and set goals for their future.
The program reflects Diné teachings of thoughtful learning, planning, living with purpose, and building strength for the future. Accepted Arizona students received paid tuition, room, and board. Students also had the opportunity to earn seven college credits through MATH 100 and NAV 101 with lab. The Summer Institute offered students a first look at college life before the fall semester, pairing academic coursework with hands-on personal development. Students joined college-readiness workshops and learned about student resources, academic advising, tutoring, wellness, financial aid, and other campus services.
“Our whole goal was to help students be college-ready,” said Trisha Roy, First Years Experience Specialist in the Diné College Division of Student Affairs. “It was a college readiness program,” Roy explained. “MATH 100 helped students keep their math skills strong before taking higher-level college courses.” She said NAV 101 helped students learn more about Navajo language and culture, which are central to Diné College. “Diné College is deeply rooted in our culture, in our language,” Roy said. “We wanted to show our first-time freshmen that within a college, you take these Navajo studies courses.”
Learning extended well beyond the classroom. Students took part in river rafting, outdoor hikes, rope courses, a shopping trip, an observatory visit, rock climbing, and community service. Staff said these experiences helped students build friendships, practice teamwork, and feel more connected to campus, strengthening both confidence and community throughout the five weeks.
Kiyanna Honani, Student Support Specialist in the Diné College Division of Student Affairs, said the program helped students move from high school to college with stronger support. “The basis of it is just basically college readiness for our high school seniors coming into college and trying to help them ease that transition from high school to college,” Honani said. She added that the program also encouraged students to become more independent and to ask for help when needed. “Our ultimate goal is to see them graduate,” Honani said.
The Summer Institute was led through the Division of Student Affairs with support from campus departments, instructors, student workers, peer mentors, and tutors. Program staff noted that students came from local schools and other areas across Arizona, including Phoenix, Page, and Whiteriver.
Diné College is a tribally controlled college rooted in Navajo culture, language, and community. The 2026 Summer Institute accepted Arizona residents who were part of the Class of 2026 and planned to enter college, and applicants received tuition, room, and board for the program. Through academic preparation, personal development, and a lasting sense of belonging, the Summer Institute continues to prepare students for success in higher education and beyond.
Diné College is the first tribally controlled and accredited collegiate institution in the United States. Founded to serve the Navajo Nation, the college integrates Diné values, language, and culture with rigorous academic study, preparing students to thrive in their communities and beyond. Through a commitment to student success, cultural identity, and lifelong learning, Diné College advances educational opportunity grounded in the principles of Sa’ąh Naagháí Bik’eh Hózhóón.
