February 21, 2025
Office of External Campuses Launches Professional Development Series Focused on Strategic Design
Window Rock, AZ – Diné College’s Office of External Campuses hosted its inaugural professional development training on Thursday, February 20, 2025, kicking off the series at Window Rock Center, which will run through June 2025 at the extended branch campus, centers, and microcenters. The workshops were led by Don Denetdeal, Cultural Consultant and retired Diné Studies Faculty and Pax Harvey, Consultant and Diné College Alumni. The event brought together students, faculty, staff, and administrators from across the Diné College community. The hybrid event featured over 50 participants from the institution and the Window Rock Center staff served as the host and coordinated a successful event.
Denetdeal’s session focused on “language and culture” and “teaching and learning” from the College’s Strategic Design. The workshop provided a hands-on learning experience for attendees. He emphasized the importance of the clan system, provided historical context of the Navajo language, and shared examples of successful continuing education opportunities. He challenged the team to be comprehensive, good listeners, and practice good communication skills.
Harvey, emphasized the importance of recognizing that higher education professionals are in the people business. Pax’s session focused on, “quality growth for the Navajo people” and “research.” He spoke on the importance of self-growth, having your heart and mind invested in the work being done, and investing in the Navajo people and the foundation of the College. Harvey concluded by highlighting two crucial factors: believing in and investing in students, and partnering with various entities to carry forward the College’s mission. Each of the six Strategic Design goals will be covered during this new series.
“This exciting series is sponsored by the American Indian College Fund’s Cultivating Native Student Success Grant. It aims to inspire Diné College’s community to embrace innovation and prioritize student success with the utmost respect. We are excited for the upcoming series,” added Winifred Jumbo, Director of External Campuses and Sites.
This event served as a powerful example of how students, alumni, faculty, staff and administrators can collaborate to create a positive environment at Diné College. The next workshops will be held at the Crownpoint Center on March 20, 2025. It will feature speakers, Dr. Andy Nez, Navajo Nation Council Delegate and Shawna Becenti, Head of School from Navajo Preparatory School. They will cover the topics of accessibility, easing access, dynamic learning, and student outcomes.
