[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 45 (Friday, April 15, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E668]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       INTRODUCING THE NAVAJO NATION HIGHER EDUCATION ACT OF 2005

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. RICK RENZI

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 14, 2005

  Mr. RENZI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Navajo Nation 
Higher Education Act of 2005.
  In 1868, the United States of America signed a treaty with the Navajo 
Tribe of Indians to provide for the education of the citizens of the 
Navajo Nation. At this time, the United States government recognized 
the trust responsibility to serve the educational needs of the Navajo 
people.
  In 1968, the Navajo Nation created and chartered the Navajo Community 
College as a wholly-owned educational entity of the Navajo Nation. In 
1971, Congress affirmed this effort by the Navajo Nation and enacted 
the Navajo Community College Act. In 1997, the Navajo Nation officially 
changed the name of the Navajo Community College to Dine College.
  Mr. Speaker, the Navajo Nation Higher Education Act reauthorizes the 
1971 Navajo Community College Act and modernizes the statute by 
including the mission statement and Navajo education philosophy of Dine 
College. Dine College educates students by applying the principles of 
Dine philosophy to advance quality student learning through training of 
the heart and the mind.
  Over the years, facilities at Dine College have deteriorated, 
creating serious health safety risks to students, employees and the 
public. This legislation provides funding to address Dine College's 
facility needs such as modernization, repair and rehabilitation. In 
addition, this important legislation requires a survey and study of 
Dine College's facility needs.
  Finally, to ensure equitable funding for Dine College, the Navajo 
Nation Higher Education Act provides funding for Dine College separate 
from the other tribal colleges and universities.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Navajo Nation Higher 
Education Act of 2005. It is our government's responsibility to provide 
educational opportunities to the Navajo people in a safe and healthy 
environment.

                          ____________________