Crownpoint, NM— On October 24, 2024, Navajo Technical University (NTU) celebrated its Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) inside the hospitality center. The event began with introductions from NTU staff and visitors, including the President, Vice President, and members of the NTU Engineering Club.
Dr. Elmer Guy began by discussing NTU’s history and the role of higher education. He emphasized how the American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) view tribal colleges as pathways to four-year institutions. He noted that the Industrial Engineering program has laid the groundwork for a fabrication lab overseen by instructor Scott Halliday. Students are paving their way into STEM fields through collaborations with organizations such as NASA, Sandia Labs, and the NSF. Engaging with high school students, counselors, and teachers provides a significant advantage. “Our board is incredibly supportive and believes in our vision. We’re excited to expand Ph.D. programs in engineering at NTU, which will enhance student retention and success,” Dr. Elmer Guy stated.
Dr. Casmir Agbaraji, Dean of Undergraduate Studies, provided an overview of ABET accreditation. He explained the various programs and commissions involved, emphasizing the benefits for students, the institution, and the global community after graduation. “The criteria for ABET accreditation focus on our student outcomes, which are interconnected. The needs of the students drive improvements. The NTU Partnership presents over seventy compelling proposals from leading employers specifically tailored for NTU Engineering graduates and exciting opportunities for further studies,” he stated.
The ABET accreditation ensures that students in NTU’s engineering and technology programs meet the industry standards necessary to prepare for careers in STEM fields. NTU continues to enhance its STEM offerings, providing students with both hands-on and theoretical applications. The university offers 40 STEM programs and three graduate degrees in Engineering and Technology.
Several tribal, state, and federal leaders discussed accreditation during lunch.
Tarique Hasan Khan, Assistant Professor of Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Technology, expressed his gratitude for the event, stating, “Thank you, Dr. Agbaraji, for all your assistance during the accreditation process for the ABET program. I hope all current and future students will feel encouraged and benefit from this accreditation.”
Dr. Andy Nez, a Navajo Nation Council delegate, said, “First, I congratulate President Guy, the Board of Regents, and everyone involved in securing additional accreditations for your baccalaureate and associate degree programs, particularly in 21st-century fields. This accreditation by ABET is a significant achievement, highlighting NTU’s international recognition and commitment to excellence.”
Dr. Colleen Bowman delivered an inspiring speech on the importance of accreditation in STEM education for the Navajo Nation. “I want to thank the faculty; your dedication to the university amazes me. I recognize that our partners go above and beyond to provide opportunities for the Navajo people.”
Dr. Jody Chase from the Division of Human Resource Development (EHR/HRD) at NSF stated, “I have been fortunate to build strong relationships with faculty members such as Scott Halliday and Peter Romine. However, the greatest blessing has been working with Dr. Elmer Guy, who has quietly played a vital role in shaping NTU’s opportunities. Thank you all for the many gifts you provide to the students of NTU.”
Navajo Technical University honored its engineering alumni, faculty, and advisory board members by presenting them with vests. Among the recipients were Dr. Gil Gonzales, Chair of the IT Advisory Board, and Marcie Vandever, an NTU alumna, who discussed the history of ABET accreditation and its ongoing significance. Dr. Jason Arviso, Vice President of Operations, and Shayna Begay, Vice Person Chairperson of the Engineering Advisory Board, also contributed to the discussion. Let us congratulate them:
– Marcie Vandever, Alumna, Former President of the Engineering Club
– Tarique Hasan Khan, Assistant Professor of Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Technology
– Mark Trebian, Associate Professor of Applied Computer Technology
– Dr. Thiagarajan Soundappan, Associate Professor of Chemistry
– Adriane Tenequer, Alumna, Industrial Engineering
– Wanda Jimmie, Alumna, Information Technology
– Dr. Bhagya M. Patil, Assistant Professor of Computer Science
– Dr. Peter Romine, Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering
Thanks to Scott Halliday’s insightful presentation, guests had the opportunity to explore the fabrication lab and its innovative features. Additionally, thank you to the Culinary Arts department for the beautiful lunch!
——————————————————
For more information, contact:
Dr. Casmir I. Agbaraji
Dean of Undergraduate Studies
P: 505-387-7371
E: cagbaraji@navajotech.edu
Navajo Technical University continues to honor Diné culture and language while educating people for the future.
Dale Morgan, Communications Specialist
dmorgan@navajotech.edu
#####
Dr. Elmer Guy speaks to NTU students, staff, faculty, guests, and visitors about the history and the newly accredited programs at Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint, NM.
Guests and visitors attended the celebration for ABET Accreditation while touring the fabrication lab at Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint, NM.