The Institute of American Indian Arts will host the presidential inauguration of Dr. Shelly C. Lowe (Navajo) on March 26–27, 2026, at its campus, 83 Avan Nu Po Road.
“We are honored to invite you to join us March 26–27, 2026, for the Presidential Inauguration of Dr. Shelly C. Lowe (Navajo),” the institute said in an announcement. “Across two days on the IAIA campus at 83 Avan Nu Po Road, Santa Fe, NM, 87508, we will honor Dr. Lowe, celebrate scholarship, and share a collective vision for the future of IAIA as the University for Indigenous Creative Excellence.”
Organizers described the inauguration as a milestone reflecting the institution’s founding values.
“This historic and momentous occasion reflects what has always shaped IAIA since its founding in 1962—Community, collaboration, and the belief that Indigenous arts and cultures are essential to our past, present, and future,” the announcement said. “The Inauguration events are designed to serve the campus Community, welcome all of Santa Fe, and invite supporters and friends nationwide to participate both in person and through livestreamed programming. As IAIA moves forward with 64 years of shared values and creative excellence, we look to the future with purpose, continuing to inspire generations of Indigenous artists, Culture-Bearers, and leaders.”
Lowe, who was raised in Ganado, Arizona, previously served as chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities and held leadership roles at Harvard University and Yale University. Organizers said she brings “a vision grounded in student success, Indigenous creative excellence, and Community partnership.”
All inauguration events are open to the public. The Inauguration Committee requests RSVPs for the Academic Symposium and Investiture Ceremony. Select events will be livestreamed.
Schedule
Thursday, March 26, 2026
— 1–5 p.m.: Academic Symposium, Gym (livestreamed; RSVP requested)
Friday, March 27, 2026
— 9:30–10 a.m.: Opening Blessing, Gym
— 11 a.m.–noon: Investiture Ceremony, Gym (livestreamed; RSVP requested)
— Noon–2 p.m.: Community Luncheon, Café Bon Appétit and CLE Commons
— 2–3 p.m.: Closing Reception for IAIA Artist-in-Residence Exhibition, Balzer Gallery
