Diné College Showcases Cultural Pride and Achievements at the 76th Annual Navajo Nation Fair Parade
7th September 2024
WINDOW ROCK, AZ – Diné College not only participated in but also excelled at the 76th Annual Navajo Nation Fair Parade, proudly securing second place in the Schools & Youth Programs category. This vibrant event celebrated the richness of Navajo culture and the spirit of community, showcasing the college’s commitment to cultural preservation and education.
Organized under the direction of the Diné College Office of Recruitment and Outreach, along with support from the Land Grant Office, Student Ambassadors, Operations & Maintenance, Security Department, and the Dual Credit Program at Window Rock High School, the parade embraced the theme “Honoring Our Heritage: Celebrating Harvest, Livelihood, and Kinship.” This theme aligned seamlessly with Diné College’s mission, emphasizing the importance of cultural pride and heritage within the Navajo Nation.
Briana Clah, a Student Recruiter, expressed her excitement about the event: “We were very excited that we were able to get Diné College students and staff to come out and help build a float for this year’s Navajo Nation Fair and Parade. A big thank you to the Diné College Land Grant Office for allowing our Office of Outreach and Recruitment to utilize their truck for this event; everything went very well, and we appreciate everyone who contributed to making it successful.”
Early in the morning, students and staff from both Diné College and the Window Rock High School Dual Credit Program embarked on their journey from the Tsaile Campus, demonstrating remarkable enthusiasm and dedication. “We are proud of our Dual Credit students and their enthusiasm to be part of the Warrior family. They got a glimpse into college life and activities,” said Francetta Begaye, Dual Credit Program Director. “I’m thankful to Erica Johnson for doing a wonderful job recruiting our WRHS dual credit students to participate in the parade and walk alongside our college students.”
The parade atmosphere was filled with energy and excitement, as colorful floats and lively performances captivated onlookers, reinforcing Diné College’s integral role in local festivities. The event left a lasting impression, celebrating the collective pride of the Diné people and their commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
Students and staff are encouraged to continue participating in these exciting events, with the next fair scheduled for the Northern Navajo Fair in Shiprock, NM. Diné College’s achievements in the parade not only highlighted its dedication to cultural pride and community engagement but also showcased the spirit of collaboration that unites the college and local schools.
