- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
TSAILE, Ariz. — In an attempt to remain competitive in the job market, Diné College increased its minimum wage to $15 an hour for regular full-time employees. The decision impacts more than two thirds of the college’s workforce of 276 individuals.
The increase comes as the federal government and Navajo Nation have a minimum wage of $7.25 an hour.
The minimum increase has been in the works since the beginning of 2021, according to Diné College President Charles “Monty” Roessel.
“At the beginning of this year, the administration vowed to do something about it. We committed to raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour,” Roessel said. “In order to practice our mission and philosophy, we must start with honoring the employees that make this college.”
Diné College is a four-year tribal college located on the Navajo reservation with six campuses and two microsites across Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah and primarily serves Navajo students.
With the increase in minimum wage, the college will also have increased expectations for employees that will include updating job descriptions and re-envisioning performance evaluations that align with the College’s four Core Institutional Values to achieve the mission and vision of the College. These are:
T’áá hó ájít’éego: Excellence and self-initiative in problem-solving, compassion, setting clear goals, and establishing positive working relationships.
Ahił na’anish: Cooperating and helping one another, keeping all employees well informed, using proper language for communication, respecting one another on equal terms, and honoring K’é.
Ił ídlí: Respecting the cultural, racial, and gender diversity of the Diné People, maintaining safe, courteous, respectful, and positive learning environments, and valuing inclusiveness.
Ił ééhózin: Understanding, thoughtfulness, competence, confidence, conscientiousness, and reflectivity for serving the needs of the Diné People.
“Diné College is in the process of transforming who we are and what we offer. I want all of you to know that we are excited to meet this new future together and with the mutual respect needed to meet our aspirations,” Roessel said.
More Stories Like This
Exploring Native American Identities through Indigenous ArtOU Hosts Comanche Nation Chairman for Tribal Engagement Series
American Indian College Fund to Host Free Book Discussion Online with Indigenous Author Deborah Taffa
Native American Heritage Month: Message from University of Nevada - Reno President
Students to Participate in the 5th Annual Southwest Native American Showcase
Support Independent Indigenous Journalism That Holds Power to Account
With the election now decided, Native News Online is recommitting to our core mission: rigorous oversight of federal Indian policy and its impact on tribal communities.
The previous Trump administration’s record on Indian Country — from the reduction of sacred sites to aggressive energy development on tribal lands — demands heightened vigilance as we enter this new term. Our Indigenous-centered newsroom will provide unflinching coverage of policies affecting tribal sovereignty, sacred site protection, MMIR issues, water rights, Indian health, and economic sovereignty.
This critical watchdog journalism requires resources. Your support, in any amount, helps maintain our independent, Native-serving news coverage. Every contribution helps keep our news free for all of our relatives. Please donate today to ensure Native News Online can thrive and deliver impactful, independent journalism.
