March 11, 2025
Diné College Students Shine at 36th Annual AIHEC Student Conference
Rapid City, SD – Diné College students demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication, earning multiple accolades at the 36th Annual American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC) Student Conference. The event, themed “Ancient Wisdom, the Foundation of Our Future: Sovereignty, Unity, and Strength for Future Generations,” was held at the Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center.
The Diné College Critical Inquiry Team secured a third-place finish in a competitive field. Team members Nanibah Bigman, Hailey Tomasiyo, Madison Begay, and Terance Woody delivered an outstanding performance guided by their coach, Sterling Walter.
Adding to the College’s success, Tomilethia Chee showcased her precision and skill by earning third place in the Women’s Individual Archery category, with support from her coach, Darwyn Henderson.
Terance Woody also achieved individual excellence in the Writing category of AIHEC’s SLAM POET competition. With guidance from his coach, Dr. Nonabah Sam, he further made a mark by claiming the title of 2025 Mr. AIHEC.
Dayhenoa Yazzie impressed judges in the Persuasive Speech category, securing a well-deserved second-place finish under the mentorship of coach Dr. Alysa Landry and Neilroy Singer.
The achievements at the 2025 AIHEC Conference highlight Diné College’s mission to foster academic excellence, celebrate the talents of its students, and honor the cultural heritage of the Diné people.
