Return to Dinétah welcomes 6 Diné Fort Lewis College students to return to their homelands and work in community, practicing Diné Bizaad with fluent speakers within the context of their chosen field. The program consists of a 15-credit block semester over the course of the spring semester.

• 2 credits: NAIS 493 (Internship in Native American & Indigenous Studies)

• 2 credits: BL 351 (Internship in Borders & Languages)

• 2 credits: SOC 315 (Field Methods in Sociology & Human Services)

• 9 credits: Program-specific engagements

Students will create a portfolio of academic materials to submit as a cumulative representation of their work over the course of the semester. During weeks 1-4, students will propose a fluent Diné Bizaad speaker they wish to learn from, and a language-speaking community space to volunteer in. During weeks 5-15, students will engage with their chosen Diné Bizaad language speakers and community spaces, working closely with Dr. Rachael Nez online and in person.

The Vadon Foundation provides financial assistance to student participation in this program. Please contact Dr. Rachael Nez with questions at rnez5@fortlewis.edu