Honoring Native Tradition and Community Through Academic Excellence
Nizhoni Days
Nizhoni Days was first conducted in
1955. Nizhoni Days is a
week of celebration and sharing of American Indian culture with UNM
students, staff, faculty, and the general public, held annually late
April. For more information contact KIVA Club: kiva@unm.edu
NAS Annual Graduation
Convocation
The first Native American Studies
Graduation Convocation was held in May 2005 at the University of New
Mexico honoring graduates receiving the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Native
American Studies and recipients of the Minor in NAS. Since, NAS has made
a commitment to honor its’ graduates prior to and separate from the larger
UNM Graduation Ceremony. The NAS Convocation includes a reception and
recognition by the Dean of University College, Director of NAS, faculty
and other UNM leaders who have been instrumental in supporting students
and their families. The convocation is held annually in May. Please see the
UNM graduation website for convocation information: www.unm.edu/~commence/index.html
A short keynote talk is presented by an invited guest focusing on
the completion of a goal in students’ lives and other acknowledgements
are made on behalf of the Kiva Club and the Native American Studies
Honor Society. Previous keynote speakers have included Dennis Banks
(Ojibway- Activist), Lynda Lovejoy (Diné - New Mexico State Senator)
and Alvin Warren (Santa Clara -
Cabinet Secretary, NM Indian Affairs Department, and Kara Bobroff
(Navajo/Lakota – Native American Community Academy).