Navajo Student Embarks on a Journey of Education and Advocacy
Reanna Yazzie’s daily routine at Northern Arizona University is far from ordinary. As she strides through the campus, she carries not only her academic materials but also the legacy of her Navajo heritage and the aspirations for her young son’s future. Her pursuit of an anthropology degree is a testament to her commitment to bridging cultural history with contemporary education.
Raised in Dennehotso within the Navajo Nation, Yazzie’s educational path began in Flagstaff, where she attended Coconino High School before graduating from Ponderosa High School. Her journey was interrupted when she had to leave school to care for her ailing mother, who passed away in 2013. “She was my only parental figure since my father was not in my life,” Yazzie shared. “Losing my mother was heartbreaking.”
In 2021, a pivotal phone call from her cousin inspired Yazzie to return to education amidst the pandemic. Enrolling in Coconino Community College, Yazzie embraced online classes, completing her associate’s degree and smoothly transferring to NAU with the help of the TRIO Student Support Services program.
Academic Aspirations and Cultural Advocacy
At NAU, Yazzie found a supportive environment with advisors and professors who encouraged her academic pursuits. Her interest in anthropology was sparked by classes at CCC and the encouragement of Professor Lisa Doskocil, who highlighted the unique perspective Yazzie could bring to the field as a Native American.
Beyond her studies, Yazzie contributes to vital research as a research assistant at the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals’ Water, Society and Policy Lab. Her work focuses on water security issues facing the Navajo Nation. “I help transcribe all the interviews and collect all the data to see where the connections are,” Yazzie explained. This research is crucial for understanding water policies affecting her community.
During the summers, Yazzie’s role at the Museum of Northern Arizona allows her to further her passion for preserving history. She assists with the Heritage Festival, an event celebrating Native American traditions through art and dance, and coordinates educational summer camps that integrate Indigenous teachings.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Yazzie envisions a career either in fieldwork or education, drawing on her experiences at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Her advice to non-traditional students considering a return to education is candid and encouraging. “I would say not to be afraid, to not be nervous about being an older student in a setting where there’s a lot of younger people,” she advised. Yazzie emphasized the value of returning to school with a determined mindset and the importance of perseverance.
Reanna Yazzie’s story is one of resilience and dedication, blending her educational goals with a deep commitment to her community’s cultural and environmental challenges.
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