CROWNPOINT, NM - Navajo Technical University, Master of Arts in Dine Culture, Language and Leadership Degree Program would like to highlight three graduate students that have successfully passed their Master Thesis Presentation and Oral Defense for the Fall 2021 Semester. These graduate exams were held in person while following CDC protocols to ensure our student and faculty safety.

Our Candidates:

• Kathleen Jim, from Whooporwill, Arizona, shared her passion for Diné language revitalization and proposed a “Diné language nest” for infants and toddlers; this would enhance and contribute to current Pre-K programs across Navajo Nation.
• Natalie Denezpi drove from Lukachukai, Arizona, to present her research on remedial education among Native American students. She argued that using the Diné philosophy of the cornstalk and the Diné Philosophy of Education can help support students in their academic success.
• Wanda Cooke, from Sawmill, Arizona, provided a modern perspective into the Navajo clan system by sharing its origin, complexity, and modernism. Her data included an analysis and synthesis of our clan system, Ádóone’é.

The Master Thesis Committee consisted of Dr. Dianna Mullet, Professor of Psychology; Brain Connelly, Professor of English; Dr. Siri Tuttle, Professor of Linguistics; and Dr. Jennifer Wheeler, Dean of Graduate Studies.

Navajo Technical University continues to honor Diné culture and language while educating for the future.

For more information about the Master in Arts in Dine Culture, Language and Leadership Degree Program. Please contact Ms. Natalie Desiderio - ndesiderio@navajotech.edu.

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