February 18, 2025

Diné College Recognized as a Research Institution in New Carnegie Classifications

TSAILE, Ariz. Diné College has achieved a remarkable new milestone: It has been recognized as one of only two Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) classified as a Research Institution in the updated Carnegie Classifications. This designation underscores the college’s commitment to academic excellence, research, and innovation within its community and beyond.

The Carnegie Classifications serve as a prestigious framework that categorizes higher education institutions based on their degree offerings and research activity. This latest recognition places Diné College among a select group, further solidifying its role as a leader in advancing research and higher education opportunities for Native communities.

“This is truly an achievement for Diné College and a reflection of the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students,” said Dr. Christelle, Vice Provost for Research, Innovation, and Practice. “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Principal Investigators (PIs) who lead groundbreaking research and to the behind-the-scenes team in Research and Grants Accounting, whose diligence and exceptional work have made this possible.”

The updated Carnegie Classifications build upon a tradition dating back to the early 1970s, aiming to provide a consistent and comprehensive framework to support research and institutional development. The research designation requires institutions to demonstrate high levels of research activity, including conferring research-related degrees and reporting significant funding for research endeavors. Diné College’s inclusion in this category signifies both its growing research capabilities and its vital contributions to the field.

“As a Tribal College, our mission is deeply tied to serving our community while maintaining our roots in Diné culture and values,” Dr. Christelle added. “This recognition symbolizes our ability to not only honor our traditions but also innovate and push the boundaries of research. It’s an opportunity to shine a light on the importance of Native-led research and the unique perspectives we bring to the broader academic and scientific landscape.”

The designation acknowledges Diné College’s steady growth in research output, particularly in areas that address real-world challenges faced by Native communities. It also highlights the institution’s commitment to fostering an environment where students, researchers, and faculty are empowered to explore and contribute across diverse disciplines.

By achieving this classification, Diné College joins a distinguished cohort of institutions that are not only academic leaders but also hubs for innovation and discovery. This milestone reinforces the college’s ability to drive meaningful change and inspire the next generation of leaders and researchers.

“This recognition is more than a title—it’s a responsibility. It’s a commitment to continue building research capacity, mentoring scholars, and creating pathways for success,” Dr. Christelle said. “We’re proud to represent what is possible when Indigenous institutions invest in research and innovation.”

With this achievement, Diné College aims to strengthen further partnerships and funding opportunities that enhance its research initiatives. Plans include expanding research infrastructure, providing additional support to faculty and students, and sharing the knowledge generated through these efforts with the broader community.

Diné College’s recognition as a Research Institution is a moment of pride for the college and the Navajo Nation. It demonstrates the capacity of TCUs to excel on a national academic stage. This achievement bridges traditional knowledge with modern research methodologies, paving the way for a brighter future that is both innovative and deeply rooted in cultural heritage.

For more information about Diné College and its research initiatives, visit www.dinecollege.edu.