A Native American Graduation

Thursday - May 23, 2019 by Robert L. Ortiz | The Southern Ute Drum

The Keeswood brothers sing an honor song for the Native American graduates from Durango High School.

Southern Ute Cultural Education Coordinator and tribal elder, gave the opening prayer to begin the Native American Graduation.

Durango School Superintendent, Dan Snowberger gave the welcome address.

Student speakers, Eugenia Begay (Navajo) and Tyrell Scott (Southern Ute) shared experiences of high school and thanked friends, and family members.

Durango High School MultiCultural Equity & Impact Program Manager, Ceriss Blackwood looks on as student speakers, Eugenia Begay and Tyrell Scott shared personal high school memories.

Raymond Dunton, Hopi-Navjo President of the Navajo Ministies in Farmington, N.M, gave the keynote address. Dunton emphasized making forward progress through our obstacles, "Don't settle for just surviving, instead thrive!"

The Keeswood brothers sing an honor song for the Native American graduates from Durango High School, hosted by the Durango 9-R School District, and organized by Multicultural Equity & Impact Program Manager, Ceriss Blackwood. The graduation was in the Southern Ute Cultural Center & Museum, Saturday, May 18.

Southern Ute Education Director, LaTita Taylor; Boys and Girls Club Chief Executive Officer, Bruce LeClaire. LeClaire is the former Title 7 Program Director of the Durango School District.; and Mr. Scott received gifts for their contributions and support of the Native American Graduation program.

Southern Ute tribal member Tyrell Scott received a Pendleton blanket from Ceriss Blackwood and Maria Gonzales of Durango High School.

A meal of Indian Tacos and BBQ sandwiches were served after the Graduation Ceremony.

Photo Credit: Robert L. Ortiz | The Southern Ute Drum