Robert W. Young Scholarship Fund
The Robert W. Young Scholarship has supported over 30 UNM students to date in studying the linguistics of Indigenous languages. Robert W. Young, a prominent figure in Navajo Linguistics, is well-known for his detailed publications and in-depth analysis of the Navajo language. In honor of his contribution, we offer scholarships ranging from $1,000.00 to $1,500.00.
Steven Menefee Graduate Fund for Indigenous Language Revitalization.
Steven Virgil Menefee was completing his PhD in Linguistics and working to preserve at-risk Indigenous languages at UNM when he sadly passed away in 2010. Steven was especially interested in the Navajo language; he studied Navajo for four semesters with Dr. Melvatha Chee, who was still a graduate student at the time. Steven also worked closely with Jalon Begay and Dr. Chee doing Navajo language research. We loved Steven’s energy, positivity, creativity, and his enthusiasm for Indigenous languages and linguistics. We are thus excited to offer this fund in his honor.
William Morgan Sr. Navajo Language Fund
This fund was created to honor William Morgan Sr., a Navajo linguist, whose monumental efforts in documenting the Navajo language paved the way for the establishment of the Navajo Language Program here at UNM. Donations will be used to support the advancement of the Navajo Language Program and its students. This includes creating educational materials (and making them available online), organizing conferences/events (such as Diné Culture Night), and assisting in creating other university activities associated with the Navajo community. Your continued support of the Navajo Language Program is vital to the maintenance and preservation of the Navajo language.