NAU STORIES

WE ARE PROUD OF THE COUNTLESS NAU LUMBERJACKS ACCOMPLISHING INCREDIBLE AND WONDERFUL THINGS. READ ABOUT THEM AND SHARE YOUR OWN STORY.

Science & Discovery

Small worlds, huge impacts

Researcher Javier Ceja-Navarro studies the complex microbiomes of soil and insects and how they interact with the visible world.

biotechnology CEFNS Center for Ecosystem Science and Society Department of Biology Ecoss Latines microbial food webs microbial trophic interactions microbiome underrepresented students

Entrepreneurship & Business

Aiming high

For Marketing major Ana Aranda, New York City has always been the promised land. Thanks to NAU, she’s got the chance to return in style.

FCB Latina Lumberjack Scholarship

Diana White, Executive Director of Moonshot, mentors a startup business owner at NACET in Flagstaff.

Entrepreneurship & Business

Helping startups thrive

NAU alumna Diana White leans on her business experience to guide entrepreneurs in their new ventures.

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YOUR STORY

What goals have you crushed? No matter how big or small, we want to hear from you.

Department of Psychological Sciences Associate Professor Ronda Jenson sitting at her desk visiting with colleagues during a zoom call.

Education & Service

Peer-to-peer mentoring for students with disabilities

Students with disabilities develop peer-to-peer mentoring program to coach one another in STEM fields.

advocate careers coach College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Department of Psychological Sciences Education employment inclusion institute for human development Mentoring National Science Foundation obstacles peer-to-peer Sociology STEM fields students with disabilities support SWD workforce development

Biomedical sciences student Andres Huerta talking with colleague.

Education & Service

Family loyalty sparks insulin resistance research

First-generation Biomedical Science major Andres Huerta studies insulin sensitivity in the Hispanic population.

Biological Sciences Biomedical science CEFNS hands-on experiences Hispanic insulin sensitivity interns-to-scholars Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) grant Medical Directive club Phoenix Bioscience Core physician’s assistant undergraduate research symposium

Connor Crouch, PhD Forest Science student, measures the diameter of an aspen tree.

Science & Discovery

Saving the aspen ecosystem

Doctoral candidate Connor Crouch is working with forest managers to find ways to maintain a healthy aspen ecosystem in the face of multiple stressors.

ARCS Scholar aspen ecosystems CEFNS oystershell scale PhD Forest Science School of Forestry US Forest Service

NAU scholar explores fungal disease prevention

Teacher and scholar Bridget Barker explores the environmental sources of fungal pathogens to prevent exposure and infection.

and Natural Sciences Barker Lab CEFNS cocci coccidioides College of the Environment Department of Biological Sciences disease ecology evolution Faculty Forestry fungal diseases fungal genetics Fungal pathogens health disparity mentor mentorships pathogen Pathogen and Microbiome Institute PMI research research faculty TGen Valley Fever

Associate Professor Bridget Barker about to take sample from German Shepard dog.

NAU researcher tackles Valley Fever

Disease ecologist Bridget Barker investigates Valley Fever, a potentially deadly disease spreading across the Southwest.

and Natural Sciences Barker Lab CEFNS cocci College of the Environment Department of Biological Sciences disease ecology dust-borne fungal infection Forestry fungal diseases Fungal pathogens Pathogen and Microbiome Institute PMI research faculty Valley Fever

Professor Traustadóttir and students working in lab.

Science & Discovery

Does exercise plus broccoli equal healthy aging?

Undergrad researchers join redox biologist Tinna Traustadóttir in a clinical study of broccoli-based interventions for healthier aging.

aging Biology CEFNS CEIAS computer science exercise hands-on experience Hooper Undergraduate Research Award HURA Award improving health molecular phytonutrients redox research SICCS Traustadottir Lab undergraduate research symposium

scilla Sanderson standing on Navajo Nation with red mesas far in the background.

Education & Service

Eradicating H. pylori in the Navajo Nation

NAU Professor Priscilla Sanderson mentors students as they work together to eradicate Helicobacter pylori on the Navajo Nation.

Professor Jaime Awe working with archaeological artifacts in his lab.

Science & Discovery

How technology is advancing Mayan archaeology

Professor Jaime Awe mentors students while investigating why ancient Mayans behaved the way they did.

alumna anthropology archaeology Belize Valley Archaeological Reconnaissance (BVAR) project College of Social and Behavioral Sciences first-generation hands-on SBS

Tia Watkins standing by Mayan ruin in Belize.

Science & Discovery

Archaeology emphasis opens doors for NAU alumna

NAU alumna Tia Watkins conducts archaeological studies in Belize to gain a deeper understanding of Mayan culture.

alumna anthropology archaeology Belize Valley Archaeological Reconnaissance (BVAR) project College of Social and Behavioral Sciences first-generation hands-on SBS

Center for Ecosystem Science and Society Associate Professor Javier Ceja-Navarro writing notes in his lab.

Science & Discovery

Small worlds, huge impacts

Researcher Javier Ceja-Navarro studies the complex microbiomes of soil and insects and how they interact with the visible world.

biotechnology CEFNS Center for Ecosystem Science and Society Department of Biology Ecoss Latines microbial food webs microbial trophic interactions microbiome underrepresented students

Lab Manager Ron Allen looks at microscope slide in Imaging and Histology Core Facility lab.

Education & Service

Research alum founded student vet mentor program

NAU alumnus Ron Allen enjoys the interdisciplinary nature of his work as manager of the Imaging and Histology Core Facility lab.

Alumni and Natural Sciences Biology Biomedical science College of the Environment depleted uranium electron microscopy Forestry graduate student hands-on experience Imaging and Histology Core Facility lab Navajo peer mentoring student research undergraduate Vet Jacks Veteran Student Mentoring Program Veteran and Military Services Office

Pathogen and Microbiome Institute Acting Director Dave Wagner standing in the lab.

Science & Discovery

NAU professor renowned as leading disease expert

His twin passions for research and the outdoors—plus a sprinkling of serendipity—led Professor Dave Wagner to a career as a leading disease ecologist.

and Natural Sciences CEFNS College of the Environment Department of Biological Sciences disease ecology DNA fingerprinting Forestry mentor Pathogen and Microbiome Institute Paul Keim plague PMI research faculty undergraduate research program

Student researcher George Testo works in the lab.

Science & Discovery

Biomedical science major researches inflammation

Even an epidemic couldn’t keep first-generation student George Testo from his research with the Pathogen and Microbiome Institute.

Biomedical science CEFNS Department of Biological Sciences first-generation hands-on honors college mentorship Pathogen and Microbiome Institute (PMI) RISE (Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement) STEM

Science & Discovery

Keys to success in STEM for Native women

Native biochemist Naomi Lee integrates cultural identity with research, paying her success forward with student mentorship in STEM.

biochemistry CARE Cultural and Academic Research Experience Emerging Scholar epidemiology health disparities Indigenous infectious diseases mentor Microbiology Native STEM

Jason Ladner, in his lab, looking at a vial that has liquid in it.

Science & Discovery

Shedding light on reptilian health: research team studies snake fungal disease in America

Infectious disease specialist Jason Ladner and microbiologist Jeff Lorch apply genetics and wildlife ecology to study snake fungal disease.

Biological Sciences CEFNS fungal disease genetics genomic sequencing infectious disease specialist pathogen snake fungal disease US Geological Survey

Science & Discovery

PhD student gives teens a voice in mental health

Interdisciplinary Health PhD student and Assistant Clinical Professor Katie Mommaerts is researching adolescent mental health.

adolescent mental health CHHS Interdisciplinary Health PhD Mexican American online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) psychosocial health SBS social work

Avi Henn standing with e-bike next to recycling container.

Education & Service

NAU Climate Action Plan supports sustainability

NAU alumnus and Manager of Sustainability, Avi Henn, guides the Flagstaff campus towards carbon neutrality with the Climate Action Plan.

CAP carbon neutrality Climate action plan Climate Action Steering Committee environment green student actions Sustainability

Science & Discovery

Students enjoy STEM opportunities at NAU at SCC

NAU at Scottsdale Community College Biology students Sophia Alme and Maria Salazar are collaborating on three research projects.

2NAU Biology ecosystems HURA Scottsdale Community College Statewide undergraduate research symposium

Frank Telles holding laptop computer while doing dust and drought research at study site.

Science & Discovery

Esteemed STEM educator pursues PhD

Indigenous geologist and high school science teacher Frank Telles picks NAU to earn his PhD.

CEFNS Climate and Environmental Change climate change dust and drought project Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability Indigenous Paleoclimate Dynamics Laboratory STEM

Science & Discovery

Physics & math major researches asteroids

Cross-country runner and physics and mathematics double major Beau Prince studies the surfaces of asteroids—but his dreams don’t stop there.

Big Sky Conference All-Academic award CEFNS CEIAS Goldwater Scholar HURA Mathematics men’s cross-country PEAXS lab Physics Undergraduate Research

Female nursing student listening to someone talking.

Education & Service

NAU community is solving healthcare needs

NAU students, faculty, alumni, and staff explore innovative ways to improve healthcare to everyone.

Alumni CHHS computer programming Distinguished Senior Award first-generation health app healthcare hearing loss Hooper Undergraduate Research Award interns-to-scholars Jean Shuler Research Mini-Grant Master of Science in Nursing mental health Music NAU–Yuma Nursing Psychology SBS

Nikki Cooley posing on tall steps wearing beside lush indoor plants.

Education & Service

Indigenous environmental stewardship

Mother, guide, and Indigenous scientist and educator Nikki Cooley shares the source of her strength.

Alumni CEFNS climate change community Diné (Navajo) Indigenous Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals ITEP ITEP relationships mentorship Nikki Cooley river guide School of Forestry spirituality

Regents' Professor Michelle Mack working in the field with a student.

Science & Discovery

Research on the Alaskan tundra

Each summer, NAU undergraduate and graduate students join researchers studying the Alaska tundra.

Alaska tundra Faculty hands-on research undergraduate

Assistant Professor Amir Arzani posing in front of digital organ models.

Science & Discovery

Modeling blood flow

NAU Assistant Professor Amir Arzani was awarded an NSF grant to improve the accuracy of cardiovascular blood flow modeling.

Amir Arzani biomechanics cardiovascular disease CEIAS Faculty mechanical engineering NSF grant

Assistant Professor Zach Lerner performing research in a high-tech laboratory.

Science & Discovery

Helping children walk

NAU Assistant Professor Zach Lerner was awarded a $2.1 million NIH grant for a clinical trial to make walking easier for children with cerebral palsy.

$2.1 million grant Biomechatronics Lab

Science & Discovery

Using informatics to study Pluto’s chemistry

NAU Informatics major Jason Libby is developing computer software to help solve a mystery on Pluto’s surface.

CEIAS computational research computer software Hooper Undergraduate Research Award Informatics Lowell Observatory NAU/NASA Space Grant Pluto SICCS STEM Undergraduate Research Undergraduate Research Symposium and Expo

Ana Aranda outside The W. A. Franke College of Business.

Arts & Culture

Sharing stories of community at NAU

Students achieve success with the help of the communities they built at NAU.

advisor Alumni Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) Biological Sciences CEFNS Chemistry Communications exercise science food security issues Glen Canyon Dam Grand Canyon hands-on experiences honors college military-connected photography public relations Public Relations Student Society of America SBS student regent student success telecommunications Urdea Undergraduate Research Award Veteran and Military Services Veteran Success Center Veterans Day

Josette Vigil working in a Mechanical Engineering lab.

Science & Discovery

Engineering the future of patient care

Josette Vigil, an NAU Mechanical Engineering major, applies bioengineering to advance medical device science.

3D printing bioengineering CEIAS Devices Lab mechanical engineering stroke victims undergraduate symposium

Professor Abe Springer and graduate assistant Andrew Lewis studying in the field.

Science & Discovery

What is it worth? Assigning value to spring ecosystems in northern Arizona

NAU researchers study Arizona’s spring ecosystems and ask the question: what are these natural resources worth?

CEFNS economist geology research springs

Zachariah Bess working in a science lab while wearing a white labcoat and eye protection.

Science & Discovery

Unique sustainable energy solution

Chemistry major Zachariah Bess is helping develop a sustainable energy option using ionic liquids prepared from amino acids.

advising CEFNS certified by the American Chemical Society Chemistry ug research Urdea research award

Gerardo Noriega in a classroom with a laptop and genetics textbook.

Science & Discovery

First-gen student setting example for family

When Gerardo Noriega graduates from NAU–Yuma in spring 2022, he’ll be the first in his family to earn a college degree.

Biological and Natural Resource Sciences first gen NAU–Yuma Spring 2022 Yuma

NAU faculty member leading class outdoors while all participants are wearing masks on NAU Flagstaff's North Quad

Arts & Culture

Join our team of esteemed faculty

At Northern Arizona University, we’re committed to equitable education—and we’re ready for you to be part of our new hiring campaign.

Science & Discovery

Graduate found a home at NAU–Yuma

With preparation from NAU–Yuma, Eduardo Moreno will graduate ready to help the sick and vulnerable in his community.

Education & Service

Representing in Arizona: an ABOR student regent speaks up

Honors Exercise Science major Rachel Kanyur is the newest student member of the Arizona Board of Regents.

Science & Discovery

Brief presence of water in Arabia Terra on Mars

NAU PhD candidate Ari Koeppel and a team of scientists recently discovered water was briefly present in Arabia Terra on Mars.

Science & Discovery

We explore the dark sky

With access to a cadre of world-class telescopes, NAU’s astronomy and planetary science graduate students study our solar system and universe.

Computer Science major Shelby Hagemann working alongside a faculty member with laptop computers and a large screen showing computer code.

Science & Discovery

Making health mobile

Funded by multiple undergraduate research awards, Computer Science major Shelby Hagemann helped study and develop a mobile app for mental health.

app computer science Interdisciplinary Global Programs Modern Languages Undergraduate Research

Education & Service

Opening a door for all to learn

Using different teaching styles—and a touch of creativity—Dr. Andrew Sánchez Meador connects students with data analysis.

Alumni CEFNS Faculty

Science & Discovery

Engineering cleaner energy

Mechanical Engineering student Samirah Gnangbe traveled halfway across the world to participate in NAU’s renewable energy research.

CEIAS Clean Energy Research and Education climate change Diversity international student mechanical engineering Undergraduate Wind Energy Certificate Women in STEM

Education & Service

NAU center attracts diverse students

NAU’s Center for Materials Interfaces in Research & Applications (¡MIRA!) offers a new approach to science careers.

Education & Service

All-around competitor

Big Sky soccer player Madison Montgomery shows grit on the field and in the classroom.

Science & Discovery

Keeping an eye on the skies

PhD student, Annika Gustafsson, studies comets and asteroids. She recently received the Amelia Earhart Fellowship for her work in space sciences.

Entrepreneurship & Business

Rock star

Environmental consultant and NAU alumnus Dave Cook is helping cities go greener by cleaning up contaminated land to make room for more affordable housing.

Education & Service

Where Indigenous studies are applied

The Applied Indigenous Studies department at Northern Arizona University gives Native American students the knowledge and tools to become change agents in their communities.

Science & Discovery

From Centaur to comet

Doctoral student Colin Chandler’s discovery leads to the reclassification of a planetary body.

Entrepreneurship & Business

We engineer a better world

At Northern Arizona University, the next generation of engineers is learning to design and build a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future.

Science & Discovery

Earning national acclaim

Undergraduate Breezy Brock has devoted her educational career to studying infectious diseases.

Sara Burch and Adam Wetherall backpacking in the Grand Canyon.

Education & Service

NAU student researchers seek solutions to environmental challenges

At Northern Arizona University, our students and faculty look for answers to some of our most compelling environmental challenges.

Education & Service

Audiologist fights hearing loss

In collaboration with a New Jersey company, NAU researcher O’neil Guthrie is developing a drug to combat hearing loss caused by excessive noise.

audiologist College of Health and Human Services Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders hearing loss

Education & Service

First-generation college student combines chemistry and criminal justice at NAU

Branching out, first-generation student Mitzzy Lopez loves life in the lab where she combines chemistry and justice.

CEFNS Chemistry First generation LSAMP Native American Cancer Prevention project.

Entrepreneurship & Business

Making the connections

Undergraduate Anthony Mirabito plans to bring his passion and his ideas for sustainability with him when he goes into the business world.

Biology Business Environmental and sustainability studies Green Fund Honors

Science & Discovery

A deep set with sports and academics

After winning a Big Sky volleyball championship with her team and earning a 4.00, Abby Stomp has surpassed her ambitions as a student-athlete.

Informatics Psychology

Science & Discovery

Finding her academic home

Geology undergraduate researcher Cecily Combs contributes to major 4FRI forestry project.

Jayne sitting in front of her laptop at NAU campus

Entrepreneurship & Business

Building sustainable connections

Fulbright scholar Jayne Sandoval plans to help her Navajo community develop a renewable energy program.

Arts & Culture

Mechanical Engineering PhD combines interests in research and engineering at NAU

Mechanical Engineering PhD student Glen D’Silva’s goal is academia, allowing him to combine his interests in research and education.

CEIAS Indian Association international student mechanical engineering PhD

Arts & Culture

Exploring climate solutions

Alumna Susanna Dart is testing science and sustainability on the global stage.

Biology Fulbright Scholarship German Global Languages Gold Axe

Science & Discovery

A star researcher

Student-athlete Beau Prince, a Goldwater Scholar, is working toward a career in astrophysics.

Astronomy Goldwater Scholar Mathematics Physics Space

Kaitlyn Parra pipes a substance in a lab

Science & Discovery

Impacting the field of medicine

Honors microbiology major Kaitlyn Parra’s infectious disease research is breaking new ground.

Honors Microbiology Undergraduate Research

Education & Service

Honoring tradition, advancing innovation

Alumnus Jonathan Martin is the first director of the new Native American Forest and Rangeland Management Program at NAU.

Forestry

Student taking a picture at Glen Canyon.

Science & Discovery

Studying the environment and natural sciences on the Colorado Plateau

At Northern Arizona University’s Flagstaff campus, the Colorado Plateau is literally in our back yard—and it offers an ecologically diverse natural lab.

Forestry

An instructor demonstrates an exercise for a participant

Science & Discovery

We take on the fight against cancer

As the second leading cause of death worldwide, cancer remains one of the defining challenges of our time.

cancer research research

A young woman in a blazer smiles at a peer

Science & Discovery

Cultivating a greener career

Environmental and Sustainability Studies and Spanish double major Genevieve Conley aims to work internationally on conservation issues.

Environmental and sustainability studies Green Fund Interdisciplinary Global Programs Spanish

A young man in an NAU polo consults a tablet with a professor in his office

Science & Discovery

Expanding the field

Football player and biomedical science major DJ Arnson advances a family legacy and adds his own chapter.

Athletics Biomedical science Student-athlete

Entrepreneurship & Business

Helping startups thrive

NAU alumna Diana White leans on her business experience to guide entrepreneurs in their new ventures.

Theresa Bell holding a tote bag made by her company.

Entrepreneurship & Business

Finding time to empower women

Theresa Bell started her new company with business skills gained through NAU’s Personalized Learning program.

BBA business administration – entrepreneurship and small business business owner management Online personalized learning small business small business administration

Bryan Vazquez talking with another student on the campus of NAU–Yuma.

Entrepreneurship & Business

First-generation NAU–YUMA student inspires others

Bryan Vazquez, a junior Business Administration student at NAU–Yuma, wants to inspire other first-generation students to pursue a college degree.

BBA Business Administration first-generation Hispanic Imperial Valley College Latino NAU–Yuma Student Service Center

Kacey Cordell and two other students walk across NAU–Yuma campus.

Entrepreneurship & Business

Student bodybuilder plans to open inclusive gym

Veteran and NAU–Yuma Business Administration student Kacey Cordell hopes to transfer her passion for bodybuilding into opening a gym.

BBA Business Administration – Management BBA Business Administration – Managementbusiness administration bodybuilder business administration NAU–Yuma veteran

Entrepreneurship & Business

Ian McLein’s wild ride

NAU’s Personalized Learning program helped Disney executive Ian McLein take a foundational step in his career.

alumnus Computer Information Technology and a minor in Analytics continuing education personalized learning Technology

Arts & Culture

Sharing stories of community at NAU

Students achieve success with the help of the communities they built at NAU.

Joey Carosilva posing in the NAU School of Communication wearing a leather jacket and heavy, flannel button-down shirt.

Arts & Culture

Designing the future at New York Fashion Week

Joey Carosilva and four other NAU students are headed to New York Fashion Week, where they will network with expert designers.

College of Arts and Letters College of Social and Behavioral Science networking Strategic Communication The W. A. Franke College of Business U of NYFW

Entrepreneurship & Business

Staying involved with NAU

NAU alumnus Scott Hanson stays connected with NAU by acting as a professional advisor for public relations students.

alumnus broadcast journalism public relations SBS telecommunications

Education & Service

Hospitality’s innovation through collaboration

NAU professor Dr. Muhittin Cavusoglu helps his hospitality students connect the dots between collaboration, new technology, and multiculturalism.

Entrepreneurship & Business

Aiming high

For Marketing major Ana Aranda, New York City has always been the promised land. Thanks to NAU, she’s got the chance to return in style.

FCB Latina Lumberjack Scholarship

Entrepreneurship & Business

Strengthening a successful career

NAU alumna and successful professional, Michelle “Shelly” Talsma Everson returns to NAU to pursue a master’s degree in Communication.

Alumni Hispanic Latina NAU Online SOC

Education & Service

Just warming up

NAU alumnus Luis Aguilar successfully balanced football and school, and is ready for his next adventure.

Alumni Athletics Diversity FCB Hispanic

Entrepreneurship & Business

Rock star

Environmental consultant and NAU alumnus Dave Cook is helping cities go greener by cleaning up contaminated land to make room for more affordable housing.

Education & Service

Where Indigenous studies are applied

The Applied Indigenous Studies department at Northern Arizona University gives Native American students the knowledge and tools to become change agents in their communities.

Entrepreneurship & Business

We engineer a better world

At Northern Arizona University, the next generation of engineers is learning to design and build a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future.

Entrepreneurship & Business

Building sustainable connections

Fulbright scholar Jayne Sandoval plans to help her Navajo community develop a renewable energy program.

Education & Service

A different kind of classroom

Alumnus Alexander Davenport has devoted his career to making sports accessible to everyone.

Adaptive Sports Disability Studies Spanish University Studies

Arts & Culture

Amplifying Indigenous student voices at NAU

NAU amplifies Indigenous voices on our many platforms, enriching lives and improving our community.

Applied Indigenous Studies Creative Writing Criminal Justice Ecological Restoration Institute Indian Country Criminal Justice Master of Public Administration Native American Forest and Rangeland Management program Parks and Recreation Management Political Science Psychology School of Forestry School of Music

Education & Service

Celebrating ‘radical hospitality’

Entrepreneur and NAU alumnus Michael Marquess combines brewing and community as CEO of Flagstaff’s Mother Road Brewing Company.

Anthony Mirabito, in a dress shirt and tie, in conversation with a woman

Entrepreneurship & Business

Making the connections

Undergraduate Anthony Mirabito plans to bring his passion and his ideas for sustainability with him when he goes into the business world.

Biology Business Environmental and sustainability studies Green Fund Honors

Entrepreneurship & Business

Determined to succeed

Marvol Barnard is using skills from the Master of Organizational Leadership program in her role as national president of the Ladies Professional Golf Association.

Master of Organizational Leadership Online Public Administration Statewide

A young woman in graduation regalia surrounded by her family

Entrepreneurship & Business

A trailblazer for her family

By achieving her goals, online student and single mom Tiffany Grigsby proves something to herself and sets a precedent.

Online Public Administration

Arts & Culture

NAU art student takes on anti-Asian racism

Ehsa Murray, Studio Art major, uses storytelling and art to give a voice to Asian-American hate crime victims.

anti-Asian hate crimes Asian American Asian Studies minor Bachelor of Fine Arts CAL Department of Comparative Cultural Studies Department of Global Languages and Cultures Japanese minor minors in modern languages racism research School of Art Studio Art Undergraduate Expo and Symposium

Arts & Culture

Navajo NAU student is rodeo champion

Stade Riggs, a junior studying Health Sciences – Fitness Wellness, competed in the College National Finals Rodeo.

National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association

Arts & Culture

Cinder Skies connects writers and audiences

Master of Fine Arts students gather to share and connect with a unique literary community.

Cinder Skies Creative Writing Literature Master of Fine Arts MFA reading series

Arts & Culture

Kitt’s School of Music donation is pivotal

Michael and Karen Kitt’s generous donation to NAU’s School of Music will serve generations of student musicians.

advancement CAL College of Arts and Letters gift Kitt Recital Hall Kitt School of Music Music philanthropy

Arts & Culture

A place for everyone

Northern Arizona University students come from all walks of life.

2NAU 90/30 program Adaptive Sports Biological and Natural Resources Computer Information Technology Diné College Disability Studies Interior Design Kitt School of Music military-connected Native American Cultural Center (NACC) NAU–Yuma Online personalized learning Phoenix College Public Administration Scottsdale Community College Spanish veteran

Drone overview of the NAU Flagstaff campus showing the NACC and the San Francisco Peaks.

Arts & Culture

Culture, care, and community

For the past decade, the Native American Cultural Center has provided a home away from home for NAU’s Indigenous students.

10-year anniversary Indigenous students NACC Native American Cultural Center

Autumn Begay carrying a clipboard in an art museum.

Arts & Culture

Student grounded by roots, community

Autumn Begay, ’22, found her home away from home at NAU’s Native American Cultural Center.

AIS Applied Indigenous Studies award CAL Foundation minors in Museum Studies and Anthropology SBS

NAU students posing at New York Fashion Week.

Arts & Culture

A passion for fashion

NAU students mingle with influencers and celebrities at NY Fashion Week.

Business CAL Communication FCB Marketing – Sales NYFW photography SBS Strategic Communication – Merchandising Theatre – Design and Technology

Arts & Culture

Sharing stories of community at NAU

Students achieve success with the help of the communities they built at NAU.

Mackenzie Baradic standing beside a large television screen while presenting her documentary film.

Arts & Culture

Filming Arizona’s immigration crisis

Creative Media and Film major Mackenzie Baradic is documenting the stories of migrants and those who help them.

border issues CAL Creative Media and Film documentary immigration interns-to-scholars SBS Spanish minor undergraduate research symposium US Mexico border

Arts & Culture

Designing the future at New York Fashion Week

Joey Carosilva and four other NAU students are headed to New York Fashion Week, where they will network with expert designers.

College of Arts and Letters College of Social and Behavioral Science networking Strategic Communication The W. A. Franke College of Business U of NYFW

Arts & Culture

Join our team of esteemed faculty

At Northern Arizona University, we’re committed to equitable education—and we’re ready for you to be part of our new hiring campaign.

Jose Carosilva posing on a snowy street.

Arts & Culture

NAU students attend New York Fashion Week

Five NAU students get a behind-the-scenes look at New York Fashion week.

Arts & Culture

Revelations from the field

Studying photography through NAU’s Honors College brought Claire Sipos to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and taught her to persevere.

Arts & Culture

Collaborating in three dimensions

At the boundary of art and science, David Winslow Van Ness makes unexpected connections.

Arts & Culture

Protecting Tribal lands

The Institute of Tribal Environmental Professionals works with Indigenous nations to protect their land for generations to come.

Arts & Culture

Cellist and dual music major builds a rewarding career after graduation

NAU alumna Patricia Burton has found a means of expression that has survived centuries: the cello.

Arts & Culture

Into the blue(s)

Jazz musician Eric Nakamoto launched from NAU to a career in the United States Air Force

Diversity Military SOM

Arts & Culture

Thriving by design

After transferring to NAU, interior design student Jessica Arnold triumphed alongside a team of peers determined to shape their community.

2NAU CAL TRANSFER STUDENT

Arts & Culture

Across mesas and oceans

The Indigenous Cultural and Educational Exchange program at NAU goes the distance to connect Indigenous students and faculty with Indigenous peers across the globe.

Arts & Culture

NAU alumna developing a music career

NAU alumna, Mary Kray, ’20, received the Encouragement Award at the Rocky Mountain Region Metropolitan Opera National Council Audition.

Arts & Culture

Mechanical Engineering PhD combines interests in research and engineering at NAU

Mechanical Engineering PhD student Glen D’Silva’s goal is academia, allowing him to combine his interests in research and education.

CEIAS Indian Association international student mechanical engineering PhD

Arts & Culture

Exploring climate solutions

Alumna Susanna Dart is testing science and sustainability on the global stage.

Biology Fulbright Scholarship German Global Languages Gold Axe

Arts & Culture

Treasuring sustainability

NAU alumna and Printing Services employee Sara LaRosa makes a difference when she talks trash.

Ceramics Environmental and sustainability studies Sustainability

Arts & Culture

Poems by Sherwin Bitsui

Renowned poet and Assistant Professor of Creative Writing at Northern Arizona University Sherwin Bitsui shares two poems for you to read.

George Rudebusch writes the names of philosophers on a whiteboard

Arts & Culture

Shaping students’ lives

Professor of ancient philosophy George Rudebusch helps students gain skills for the future.

College of Arts and Letters Hooper Undergraduate Research Award Philosophy

Sage Bond works on a laptop in front of a

Arts & Culture

From metal to Mozart

Undergraduate student and indie rocker Sage Bond studies opera and plans to teach music on the Navajo Nation.

Music Psychology

Ye Lynn Han sitting on a rock outdoors, reading

Arts & Culture

Ye Lynn Han’s rise to international opera star

From Myanmar to opera star, international student Ye Lynn Han arrived to NAU sight unseen—and found his voice and an international opera singer.

International education Music

Professor Luis Fernandez, in his office, talks with a colleague.

Education & Service

Community engagement: creating inclusive spaces at NAU and beyond

As the Hispanic Serving Institution Advisor to the Provost Dr. Luis A. Fernandez creates spaces of safety, inclusivity, and opportunity.

Black Lives Matter criminology Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) police SBS

NAU alumna Jenny Zamora-Garcia dressed as Jessie from Toy Story standing with colleagues, as she gets ready for dental health education.

Education & Service

NAU Dental Hygiene alumna makes a difference

NAU dental hygiene alumna Jenny Zamora-Garcia provides dental care and education to the Flagstaff community.

Alumni CHHS Dental hygiene dentistry department of dental hygiene oral health education

Education & Service

Peer-to-peer mentoring for students with disabilities

Students with disabilities develop peer-to-peer mentoring program to coach one another in STEM fields.

Rebecca Seeger with colleagues at commencement. They are in commencement regalia and Seeger is holding her graduation certificate.

Education & Service

Embracing community and education in northern Arizona

NAU alum Rebecca Seeger provides a brilliant masterclass in combining lifelong learning with a determination to do good in her state.

Alumni College of Education College-in-prison Curriculum and Instruction Department of Teaching and Learning Graduate Student Government Military PhD ROTC veterans

Undergraduate Ty Holliday talking with visitor in front of the Murdoch Community Center mural.

Education & Service

Black history in Flagstaff’s Southside neighborhood

NAU undergraduate Ty Holliday helped expand a website to preserve the stories of Flagstaff’s Southside community.

African American and society Black history Cleo Wilson Murdoch College of Social and Behavioral Sciences department of geography Dunbar School Flagstaff’s Southside community Geography Green book Murdoch Community Center planning planning and recreation segregation Wilson Riles

First-generation student, Charlie Dors talks with colleague in an early education classroom.

Education & Service

First-gen student conducts gender research

Charlie Dors, a Political Science and Sociology double major, is researching gender and gender stereotypes.

gender gender norms gender roles gender stereotypes Interns to Scholars program Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Political Science SBS Sociology Undergraduate Expo and Symposium Undergraduate Research Club

Education & Service

Family loyalty sparks insulin resistance research

First-generation Biomedical Science major Andres Huerta studies insulin sensitivity in the Hispanic population.

Education & Service

The importance of NAU’s land acknowledgement

Ron Lee, from the Office of Native American Initiatives, discusses the history and importance of NAU’s land acknowledgement.

Education & Service

Eradicating H. pylori in the Navajo Nation

NAU Professor Priscilla Sanderson mentors students as they work together to eradicate Helicobacter pylori on the Navajo Nation.

NAU graphic designer Charlese Bedford working on web accessibility.

Education & Service

Designer helps NAU lead with accessibility

NAU Marketing graphic designer Charlese Bedford ensures that online documents are accessible to everyone.

ADA Americans with Disabilities Act Enrollment Management Communications Equity and Access Graphic Design inclusion and disability intentional design University Marketing visual communication Web content accessibility

Education & Service

NAU thanks and supports student veterans

Political Science major Kass Robinson is one of many student veterans with a unique journey at NAU.

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Department of Politics and International Affairs Political Science SBS study abroad United States Marine Corps veteran Veteran and Military Services Veterans Day Veterans Week

Education & Service

Student veteran shares experience at NAU

Mechanical Engineering major Uriah Whitaker is one of many student veterans with a unique journey at NAU.

Education & Service

Research alum founded student vet mentor program

NAU alumnus Ron Allen enjoys the interdisciplinary nature of his work as manager of the Imaging and Histology Core Facility lab.

Abigail Brown standing in front of "Celebrating Free Speech" display board at Regents' Cup.

Education & Service

Why join NAU’s forensics and debate team?

Students gain communication and critical thinking skills—and have fun—on NAU’s Forensics and Debate team.

communication studies Forensics and debate public speaking Regents' Cup SBS School of Communication speech and debate

Education & Service

NAU helps international students adapt

Program manager Ragh Singh helps students as they transition from India to an education at NAU.

Center for International Education CIE India international opportunities

Arts & Culture

Navajo NAU student is rodeo champion

Stade Riggs, a junior studying Health Sciences – Fitness Wellness, competed in the College National Finals Rodeo.

National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association

Science & Discovery

PhD student gives teens a voice in mental health

Interdisciplinary Health PhD student and Assistant Clinical Professor Katie Mommaerts is researching adolescent mental health.

adolescent mental health CHHS Interdisciplinary Health PhD Mexican American online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) psychosocial health SBS social work

Education & Service

NAU Climate Action Plan supports sustainability

NAU alumnus and Manager of Sustainability, Avi Henn, guides the Flagstaff campus towards carbon neutrality with the Climate Action Plan.

CAP carbon neutrality Climate action plan Climate Action Steering Committee environment green student actions Sustainability

Raegan Liguori-Reid in NAU graduation cap and gown.

Education & Service

Advancing toward her next goal

NAU graduate Raegan Liguori-Reid is pursuing an administration career with the Arizona Department of Corrections.

90/30 program Estrella Mountain Community College Online Public Administration Statewide

Jessica Stuart sits at her laptop at NAU–Yuma.

Education & Service

Student veteran pursues a career in diversity

NAU Online Organizational Leadership master’s student Jessica Stuart is committed to a career promoting equality.

Allied Health discrimination Diversity flexibility inequality master’s degree Organizational Leadership NAU Online OIEI veteran

Education & Service

How NAU’s Veteran Success Center helps students

Cecilia Torres is among NAU staff dedicated to helping student veterans get the most from their military benefits and reach their educational goals.

Arizona Western College (AWC) Liberal Studies military connected NAU Online OIEINAU–Yuma Organizational Leadership Statewide veteran Veteran Success Center Veterans and Military Services

NAU–Yuma student Katany Cardenas smiling at someone.

Education & Service

Elementary education student plans to give back

Katany Cardenas is determined to give back to her community by becoming a first-grade teacher. NAU–Yuma is helping her get there.

Arizona Western College College Assistance Migrant Program (AWC) elementary education first-generation Hispanic NAU–Yuma

Jordan Allen talking with another NAU–Yuma student.

Education & Service

NAU nursing student glad to be in Yuma

Jordan Allen is happy he made the move from the Flagstaff campus to NAU–Yuma where he’s studying to become a nurse.

NAU–Yuma Nursing

Education & Service

Distinguished senior is law school bound

Samantha Barerra, Distinguished Senior award recipient, is headed for law school after graduating with a Liberal Arts degree through NAU’s Personalized Learning program.

Distinguished Senior Liberal Arts personalized learning Pima Community College U of A law school

Education & Service

NAU community is solving healthcare needs

NAU students, faculty, alumni, and staff explore innovative ways to improve healthcare to everyone.

Arts & Culture

A place for everyone

Northern Arizona University students come from all walks of life.

Education & Service

Indigenous environmental stewardship

Mother, guide, and Indigenous scientist and educator Nikki Cooley shares the source of her strength.

Two NAU alumni holding up pins that read, "Alumni."

Education & Service

Flagstaff alums stay connected

The NAU Flagstaff Alumni Chapter combines service with socialization.

Alumni Flagstaff Alumni Chapter Lumberjack

Manley Begay Jr., EdD, professor in NAU’s Department of Applied Indigenous Studies and in The W. A. Franke College of Business.

Education & Service

To build an Indigenous nation

NAU’s Manley Begay Jr. empowers Indigenous leaders around the world.

AIS FCB Indigenous and Tribal Nation-building graduate certificate Indigenous nation-building Office of Native American Initiatives (ONAI) online certificate SBS Tribal Leadership Initiative

Education & Service

Careers in Indigenous nation-building

NAU’s Manley Begay Jr., EdD, offers his insight on what those interested in working with Indigenous nations should know.

AIS FCB Indigenous and Tribal Nation-building graduate certificate Indigenous nation-building Office of Native American Initiatives (ONAI) online certificate SBS Tribal Leadership Initiative

Arts & Culture

Sharing stories of community at NAU

Students achieve success with the help of the communities they built at NAU.

Selfie of Lizy Martinez, wearing cap and gown while holding a diploma at commencement, beside Professor T Mark Montoya.

Education & Service

Navigating new identities: the first-generation student experience

Student Lizy Martinez and Professor T. Mark Montoya use research to explore learning barriers to first-generation students.

Valeria Sandoval working outside on a laptop at the NAU–Yuma campus.

Education & Service

Student gets her “A+ going”

After almost dropping out of high school, Valeria Sandoval took control of her life and will soon graduate with a Social Work degree.

internship NAU–Yuma social work Yuma

Education & Service

Trauma leads to interest in border issues

Angela Sornia’s decision to pursue a Sociology degree is rooted in the trauma of having her mother deported.

border border issues deportation NAU–Yuma resilience social work Sociology Sociology degree with minors in Spanish and US Mexico Border Social Work Spanish spring 2023 Yuma

Two students walking on NAU-Yuma's campus.

Education & Service

NAU–Yuma provides affordable, accessible education

NAU–Yuma offers multiple undergraduate and graduate degrees, many informed by the nearby US–Mexico border.

Biological and Natural Resource Sciences border NAU–Yuma social work Sociology U.S. Mexico Border Social Work Yuma

Tad Gary posing outside while digging as part of a group

Education & Service

Bringing behavioral health resources to all

NAU alumnus Tad Gary is passionate about helping people get the behavioral healthcare they need.

advancement engagement NAU Foundation not-for-profit tad gary

Arts & Culture

Join our team of esteemed faculty

At Northern Arizona University, we’re committed to equitable education—and we’re ready for you to be part of our new hiring campaign.

Education & Service

Honoring and supporting military veterans

Veterans Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of veterans and the services available to them at NAU.

Education & Service

Celebrating ‘radical hospitality’

Entrepreneur and NAU alumnus Michael Marquess combines brewing and community as CEO of Flagstaff’s Mother Road Brewing Company.

Education & Service

Representing in Arizona: an ABOR student regent speaks up

Honors Exercise Science major Rachel Kanyur is the newest student member of the Arizona Board of Regents.

Education & Service

Hospitality’s innovation through collaboration

NAU professor Dr. Muhittin Cavusoglu helps his hospitality students connect the dots between collaboration, new technology, and multiculturalism.

Education & Service

Born to teach

Elementary education alumna Thea Hookey shares a love of learning with her students.

Arts & Culture

Protecting Tribal lands

The Institute of Tribal Environmental Professionals works with Indigenous nations to protect their land for generations to come.

Education & Service

Advocating for representation

Professor Matthew Wangeman advances the discourse of ability and inclusion.

Education & Service

Diving deep into critical thinking

Politics lecturer Gretchen Gee develops critical thinkers.

Model United Nations Politics and International Affairs Social and Behavioral Sciences

Education & Service

Creating a home away from home

Ora Marek-Martinez uses the past to build a better future for Indigenous students.

decolonization Indigenous student success NACC Native American Cultural Center

Education & Service

Our building has a heart: Ora Marek-Martinez on transforming the NACC

In her own words, Ora Marek-Martinez describes how she and her team brought the warmth of community to the Native American Cultural Center.

Education & Service

Opening a door for all to learn

Using different teaching styles—and a touch of creativity—Dr. Andrew Sánchez Meador connects students with data analysis.

Alumni CEFNS Faculty

Education & Service

Bringing us together

In the Office of Inclusion, Martin Tease starts with small talk to make big improvements in student representation.

Alumni Diversity LGBTQIA+ staff Student affairs

Education & Service

Disability Resources introduces new graduate certificate

NAU launches a graduate certificate in disability resources for in-demand career positions.

disability resources graduate institute for human development

Education & Service

The art of nursing

Inspired by a family member’s struggle against cancer, NAU–Yuma student Yasmine Castro Felix made it her mission to stand on the front line of medicine.

CHHS Hispanic Latina Statewide

Education & Service

Breaking barriers for Hispanic students

When NAU set the goal of becoming a Hispanic Serving Institution, alumna Nancy Navarro acted fast to bridge the gap.

Alumni Hispanic HSI

Education & Service

Creating change through teaching

Undergraduate Guadalupe Hernandez finds joy in teaching young children.

COE First generation Hispanic Latina

Education & Service

NAU center attracts diverse students

NAU’s Center for Materials Interfaces in Research & Applications (¡MIRA!) offers a new approach to science careers.

Education & Service

Experiences bring awareness

Regents’ Professor and Martin-Springer Institute Director Björn Krondorfer inspires his students with multi-layered learning.

Education & Service

Just warming up

NAU alumnus Luis Aguilar successfully balanced football and school, and is ready for his next adventure.

Alumni Athletics Diversity FCB Hispanic

Education & Service

All-around competitor

Big Sky soccer player Madison Montgomery shows grit on the field and in the classroom.

Education & Service

Emboldened to try something new

Dr. Rita Hartung Cheng set out to make higher education accessible for first-generation students.

Education & Service

Where Indigenous studies are applied

The Applied Indigenous Studies department at Northern Arizona University gives Native American students the knowledge and tools to become change agents in their communities.

Arts & Culture

Across mesas and oceans

The Indigenous Cultural and Educational Exchange program at NAU goes the distance to connect Indigenous students and faculty with Indigenous peers across the globe.

Education & Service

Home away from home

NAU’s Native American Cultural Center serves as a gathering space for Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students.

Applied Indigenous Studies Mentoring Native American Cultural Center Office of Indigenous Student Success

Education & Service

Leading a nation with passion and purpose

NAU alumni, President Jonathan Nez and First Lady Phefelia Herbert-Nez, led the Navajo Nation in a massive effort to combat COVID-19.

Education & Service

Importance of being present

Northern Arizona University’s accessible faculty and a real-world practicum propel Aarish Raza to a career in intensive care nursing.

Education & Service

First-generation college student combines chemistry and criminal justice at NAU

Branching out, first-generation student Mitzzy Lopez loves life in the lab where she combines chemistry and justice.

CEFNS Chemistry First generation LSAMP Native American Cancer Prevention project.

Education & Service

NAU student researchers seek solutions to environmental challenges

At Northern Arizona University, our students and faculty look for answers to some of our most compelling environmental challenges.

Education & Service

Honoring tradition, advancing innovation

Alumnus Jonathan Martin is the first director of the new Native American Forest and Rangeland Management Program at NAU.

Forestry

Education & Service

Audiologist fights hearing loss

In collaboration with a New Jersey company, NAU researcher O’neil Guthrie is developing a drug to combat hearing loss caused by excessive noise.

audiologist College of Health and Human Services Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders hearing loss

Education & Service

Our NAU nursing school builds lasting connections and career opportunities

Angie Golden’s nursing career has gone places, from helping patients in the Grand Canyon to testifying on Capitol Hill.

Education & Service

Embracing her home

In pursuit of an online master’s, National Park Service employee Kelkiyana Yazzie improves the national monument in her backyard.

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Department of Geography Planning and Recreation First generation Master of Science Native American Online Parks and Recreation Management

Education & Service

We teach powerful teachers

An incredible teacher can change the course of a student’s life.

Education Teacher Academy

Education & Service

Gateway Advising prioritizes student success

Director Monica Bai and NAU Gateway Advising provide students steady guidance.

Gateway Advising

Education & Service

Beyond the brick and mortar

NAU educational anthropologist Frances Riemer shares online teaching tips.

anthropology Education Online women’s and gender studies

Education & Service

A different kind of classroom

Alumnus Alexander Davenport has devoted his career to making sports accessible to everyone.

Adaptive Sports Disability Studies Spanish University Studies

Arts & Culture

Treasuring sustainability

NAU alumna and Printing Services employee Sara LaRosa makes a difference when she talks trash.

Ceramics Environmental and sustainability studies Sustainability

Education & Service

Finding the story in the numbers

Interdisciplinary Health PhD student Taylor Lane aims to impact lives through analysis.

Interdisciplinary health Population health research

Education & Service

Embracing valuable lessons

Kayla Reyes, a special education and elementary education major, aims to work with students with special needs.

Education Special education Teachers Academy

Education & Service

Lifting up her students

Honors elementary education major Hannah Gish is eager to serve diverse Arizona schools.

Education Special education Teachers Academy

Raegan Liguori-Reid, Bachelor’s Public Administration, posing in graduation robes.

Arts & Culture

Collaborating in three dimensions

Education & Service

Why join NAU’s forensics and debate team?

Students gain communication and critical thinking skills—and have fun—on NAU’s Forensics and Debate team.

communication studies Forensics and debate public speaking Regents' Cup SBS School of Communication speech and debate

I wanted to find a college that would allow me to get out of my comfort zone and to explore new horizons. I had NAU on my mind because it’s known for making a difference in the biological and environmental sciences, something that is meaningful to me.

George Testo, Honors Biomedical Science major

Education & Service

Designer helps NAU lead with accessibility

NAU Marketing graphic designer Charlese Bedford ensures that online documents are accessible to everyone.

UP NEXT

Science & Discovery

How technology is advancing Mayan archaeology

Professor Jaime Awe mentors students while investigating why ancient Mayans behaved the way they did.

alumna anthropology archaeology Belize Valley Archaeological Reconnaissance (BVAR) project College of Social and Behavioral Sciences first-generation hands-on SBS

Education & Service

Eradicating H. pylori in the Navajo Nation

NAU Professor Priscilla Sanderson mentors students as they work together to eradicate Helicobacter pylori on the Navajo Nation.

Entrepreneurship & Business

Student bodybuilder plans to open inclusive gym

Veteran and NAU–Yuma Business Administration student Kacey Cordell hopes to transfer her passion for bodybuilding into opening a gym.

BBA Business Administration – Management BBA Business Administration – Managementbusiness administration bodybuilder business administration NAU–Yuma veteran

NAU scholar explores fungal disease prevention

Teacher and scholar Bridget Barker explores the environmental sources of fungal pathogens to prevent exposure and infection.