Ms. Valenzuela also has an exceptional record of service, both to our University and to the larger community. As a first-generation student, she is particularly passionate about helping other students like herself to achieve their goals, much as in the way she herself was helped along the way. Ms. Valenzuela’s community service began as a Volunteer College Coach for the Metropolitan Education Commission, where she volunteered to help her peers obtain scholarships and apply to FAFSA.

As a full-time student, Ms. Cheromiah has always demonstrated a strong commitment to her education, seeing it as a vehicle to not only advance her own educational goals, but also as a means for advancing the wellbeing of her tribal community and inspiring others to pursue higher education. She exhibits this consistently, creatively, and with great passion.

Mrs. Abeyta is a member of the Navajo Nation originally from To'hajiilee, New Mexico. She is a 2021 Juris Doctor Candidate in good standing at the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law. Ms. Abeyta chose to attend law school as a way of improving her life, the life of her family, and to develop the skills necessary for a continued career in public service.

Adam possesses the critical thinking skills and professional competencies in research practice and advocacy that a future healthcare leader should have to tackle health disparity challenges. As a researcher he has exemplified strong communication skills presenting at national and international conferences, managing diverse personalities on multicultural, multi-disciplinary teams, and utilizing problem-solving and analytical skills as a member of Dr. O’Rourke’s team.

Aaron actively pursues opportunities to give back to his community, which are activities that should be considered part of maintaining his identity as an astronomer and scientist as well as outreach. These are clear demonstrations of grit and resilience, attributes that have enabled him to get to where he is today, and will continue to empower him as he pursues a research career in astrophysics.

Tommey is a LEAD scholar though our program here at the Native American Research Training Center. The main purpose of the LEAD program is to assist in the success of their academics through their first year. Through her first year at the University of Arizona Tommy has demonstrated great determination in succeeding in her first year through her leadership in virtual activities, volunteering in her community, attending webinar trainings and always punctual and present at program meetings. 

The Haury Water Hub is a place where information on current and on-going work and research happening on the Navajo Nation water issues can be shared with interested parties. The Haury Water Hub aims to advance greater coordination with, and collaboration among the many people and entities currently doing research, contributing funding, or engaging in other outreach work to advance the water sustainability goals of the Navajo Nation, or who wish to do so in the future.

Erasmus Circle Fellows are faculty leaders who have demonstrated excellence in their fields. They are nominated by their department heads and former Erasmus Circle Fellows, then selected by the College of Education National Advisory Board. We are happy to announce this year’s Erasmus Circle Fellow, Department of Educational Policy Studies and Practice Assistant Professor Jameson David Lopez.