Diné College’s acting president, Glennita Haskey, has shared updates on recovery efforts and reconstruction plans following the fire that severely damaged the college’s student union building (SUB) at the Tsaile campus. The briefing detailed safety measures, reconstruction timelines, and the college’s efforts to address student and staff needs.

Authorities confirmed that two suspects were identified, with one arrested as the investigation continues. Access to the impacted area remains restricted with temporary fencing; contracted security personnel are supporting campus safety.

The reconstruction of the SUB will unfold in phases, with completion anticipated by October 2026. Initial efforts, beginning in May 2025, include document retrieval and structural assessments.

Support services have been mobilized to aid students and staff during the recovery process. The college’s Student Mental Health and Wellness Program is in partnership with Indian Health Services Chinle Mental Health and Tsaile Counseling Services to create opportunities for students, staff, and faculty to process and heal.

Additionally, the college has partnered with traditional and Christian counselors to provide avenues for healing. “It’s essential that everyone feels supported during this time,” Haskey said.

Student concerns about campus safety are being actively addressed. The college has committed to revisiting evacuation plans, enhancing communication strategies, and updating lockdown procedures. Immediate safety measures include increased security patrols and transparency in safety protocols.

Preparations for key events remain on track. The spring 2025 graduation ceremony will take place on May 9 at the Shiprock South Campus in an outdoor setting, underscoring unity within the Diné College community.

The college thanks neighboring state universities for their contribution to provide the graduation regalia for the graduating students. For more information on the 2025 graduation, please visit the Diné College website at https://www.dinecollege.edu/commencement-information/

The Tsaile campus officially reopened on Monday, April 21, 2025, following a traditional cleansing ceremony. Classes and operations will resume the same day, and students and staff are encouraged to follow all safety directives to support recovery progress.

Diné College would like to extend its sincere appreciation and gratitude to all first responders, including the Navajo Nation police department, fire department, and criminal investigators; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; emergency medical services; Navajo Nation Risk Management; Indian Health Services; the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; and many more first responders. Each exemplified immediate call to action that controlled and prevented the fire from spreading across campus. They rendered aid and safety to the college community and demonstrated effective network with our incident commander. For this, the institution extends a heartful thank you to all who assisted and continue to assist the college on the road to recovery.

“Rebuilding the student union building is not just about replacing a structure,” Haskey said. “It represents our resilience and our dedication to providing the best resources and opportunities for our students to thrive.”