Diné College is the first tribally controlled and accredited collegiate institution in the United States. Established in 1968 as Navajo Community College, it was later renamed Diné College. The Navajo Nation sought to create an institution of higher education that encouraged Navajo youth to become contributing members of the Navajo Nation and the world.
Under the direction of an eight-member Board of Regents, appointed by the Navajo Nation President and confirmed by the Health Education and Human Services Committee of the Navajo Nation Council, the College continues its goals for student success.
Today, Diné College serves a predominantly Navajo student population across the 27,000 square miles of the Navajo Nation that spans across the states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. The College offers General Education courses that provide students with a high-quality experience while earning various Certificate as well as Associate and Bachelor degree programs in the areas important to the economic, political, environmental, and social development of the Navajo Nation.
Mission Statement
Rooted in Diné language and culture, our mission is to advance quality post-secondary student learning and development to ensure the well-being of the Diné People.
Vision Statement
Our vision is to improve continuously our programs and services to make Diné College the exemplary higher education institution for the Diné People.
Strategic Goals (2017-2021)
Diné Identity – Advance the institution’s Diné identity.
Increase use and application of language, history and culture campus-wide.
Incorporate and strengthen Diné teachings in current and future programs.
Build cultural relevance into academic and student support programs.
Student Success – Promote student success and development.
Increase cross-institutional dialogues to promote student success.
Expand student opportunities for career readiness.
Expand student opportunities for leadership development.
Financial Health – Strengthen financial health and self-reliance.
Increase funding sources to support institutional growth.
Optimize the College’s financial systems.
Streamline institutional compliance.
Institutional Transformation – Promote effective communication and accountability.
Demonstrate institutional transparency in planning and initiatives.
Develop communication policies and guidelines for the institution.
Target professional development opportunities to increase performance.
Technology – Expand effectiveness and efficiency using technology.
Enhance the internal technology infrastructure of the College community.
Advance IT policies to meet the evolving needs of the institution.
Improve information technology to enhance student learning experiences.
Nation Building – Cultivate Diné Nation building.
Building congruent educational programs to meet the needs and aspirations of the Navajo Nation.
Assist Navajo Nation in becoming better positioned economically.
Align programs with sustainable employment opportunities for graduates.
College Principles
Our educational principles are based on Sa’ah Naagháí Bik’eh Hózhóón, the Diné traditional living system, which places human life in harmony with the natural world and universe. The system provides for protection from the imperfections in life and for the development of well-being. The principles are four-fold:
Nitsáhákees. Thinking. Baa nitsídzíkees. Apply the techniques of reasoning. Analyze alternative solutions through the use of the principles of logic and creativity.
Nahat’á. Planning. Nahat’á anitsíkees bee yáti’ dóó ííshjání óolzin. Develop and demonstrate communication skills. Nahat’á nahaaldeel. Demonstrate systematic organization skills.
Iiná. Implementation. T’áá hó ájít’éego hozhoogo oodáál. Demonstrate self-direction based on personal values consistent with the moral standards of society. T’áá hó ájít’éego hózhóogo oodáál. Demonstrate quality, participation, work, and materials.
Our employees and students will adhere to the following values to achieve the mission and purposes of the College
T’áá hó ájít’éego. Excellence and self-initiative in problem-solving, compassion, setting clear goals, and establishing positive working relationships.
Ahil na’anish. Cooperating and helping one another, keeping all employees well informed, using proper language for communication, respecting one another on equal terms, and honoring K’é.
Il ídlí Respecting the cultural, racial, and gender diversity of the Diné People, maintaining safe, courteous, respectful, and positive learning environments, and valuing inclusiveness.
Il ééhózin. Understanding, thoughtfulness, competence, confidence, conscientiousness, and reflectivity for serving the needs of the Diné People.
Accreditation
Diné College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1411, (800) 621-7440, www.hlcommission.org.