A 2010 graduate of Chinle High School, William discovered his passion for teaching through his natural ability to connect with kids while substituting and coaching, particularly during football season. This inspired him to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Multicultural Education at NTU.
His journey included attending Northern Arizona University, the University of Arizona, and Pima College. During his time in Tucson, his work in hotel management laid the foundation for his commitment to volunteering and supporting others. Even in high school, William demonstrated leadership as the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) class president and was involved in Culinary Arts and the Native Skills Competition.
Raised by a single parent, William learned early on how to communicate effectively with younger generations. As a motocross enthusiast, he applies his knowledge to teach children everyday math through extreme sports, helping them calculate risk using numbers in daily life. “It matters, and it’s fruitful to observe things, calculate, and being aware is being a teacher. It is also just being yourself,” William shared.
During the pandemic, William eventually returned home to support his grandparents and transferred to Navajo Technical University. He successfully earned three degrees and certificates through a mix of online and in-person classes, and he even witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony at Chinle.
At NTU, he has embraced his roles as a student, volunteer, and athlete. “Being at NTU has really brought out my traditional side toward being an athlete, instead of being Western-based,” he noted, explaining how the institutional logo reflects the core philosophies of Nitsáhákees (thinking), Nahátá (planning), Īína (implementing), and Siihasin (reflection).
Now nearing the completion of his degree, William hopes to establish a fitness cycling club at NTU to encourage students to ride a mile or two each day. Looking ahead, he aspires to become a counselor or an athletic director, drawing from a lifetime of accumulated knowledge. He expresses deep gratitude to George LaFrance for mentoring him in cross country, basketball, and cycling, and he honors the traditional teachings of his grandfather, Nelson Gormon.
If you are interested in shaping the future of education with a degree in Early Childhood Multicultural Education, please reach out to Thomas Yazzie, the ECME Program Coordinator, at thomas.yazzie@navajotech.edu.
Register for the Fall 2026 semester at Navajo Technical University and start your educational journey today!
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