Celebrating the NAYA Class of 2026

On June 12, NAYA proudly celebrated the accomplishments of 17 graduates during the annual NAYA Graduation ceremony. Surrounded by family, friends, Elders, staff, and community members, each graduate was recognized for their hard work, perseverance, and commitment to their future.

A prominent part of the ceremony was the involvement of NAYA Elders, who each adopted a graduate, took time to learn about their goals and aspirations, and presented them with a personalized gift. Every graduate also received an Eighth Generation blanket which was draped over each graduate as they came up to claim their diploma.

Each student was introduced by a NAYA staff member before taking the stage to share their own reflections. Graduates expressed gratitude for their families, teachers, mentors, and the many NAYA staff who supported them along the way. Many spoke about how meaningful it was to be celebrated in a ceremony that honored not only their accomplishments but also their culture, identity, and future.

This year's graduates represent the many pathways to success that NAYA supports, including students earning their high school diploma and those completing their GED through NAYA's Youth Education Services (YES) Re-engagement Program. Every graduate's journey is unique, and every achievement deserves to be celebrated.

NAYA is incredibly proud of the Class of 2026 and remains committed to supporting graduates beyond commencement. Through College and Career Services, scholarship opportunities, mentorship, and other culturally grounded programs, NAYA continues to walk alongside students as they pursue higher education, career training, and their personal goals.

Invest in the Next Generation

When you support NAYA's education programs, you're investing in Native youth as they build bright futures for themselves, their families, and their communities. Your generosity helps provide culturally grounded education, wraparound support, college and career readiness, and scholarship opportunities that make higher education and career pathways more accessible for Native students.

Support Native students by making a gift to the Academy today!