From left, NTU president, Dr. Elmer J. Guy; Salina Derichsweiler, director of New Mexico Development; Corrina Kumpe, chief financial officer of SunShare; and Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren

SunShare, a community-solar company, awarded a $6 million grant to Navajo Technical University (NTU) for renewable energy and a $1.2 million donation to the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women.

NTU faculty and staff, Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women, and the SunShare team met inside the wellness center to celebrate the partnership of the Navajo Nation’s profound connection with the land, sun, wind, and water. These elements are central to our history and pivotal to future energy solutions. Dr. Colleen Bowman warmly welcomed the event as Dr. Sharon Nelson opened with a blessing and introduction. Along with the celebration, Ryedale Largo entertained guests with traditional Navajo songs and dances.

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren from Red Mesa, Arizona, gave insights on the significance of the grant and future aspirations for renewable power in the Navajo Nation, including a recent solar power energy project near his hometown. “We have been a fossil fuel community as we emphasize renewable energy, that as Indigenous people, we not only respect these elements but have a deep-rooted responsibility to utilize them sustainably, echoing the wisdom of our ancestors,” Nygren stated. He also gave thanks for the generous donation. Nygren added, “Navajo Technical University is a hub for innovation and thought leadership. NTU invests in education and training directly in the Navajo Nation’s prosperous future.”

Dr. Elmer Guy welcomed guests and local dignitaries, expressed appreciation for the grant, offered insights into how the funding will be utilized, and stressed the college’s commitment to education and community development, furthering renewable energy and strengthening our community against socio-cultural challenges. “I encourage Navajo youth to champion this fusion of ancestral values with contemporary innovation,” Guy said. Navajo Technical University’s potential and vision lead the charge toward a sustainable future. “As we venture into renewables, we progress technologically and protect our sacred land for future generations,” Guy added.

Corrina Kumpe, chief financial officer of SunShare, and Salina Derichsweiler, director of New Mexico Development, explained the grant’s purpose and recognized the award. “We integrate solar into the community into a more beneficial modern solution. Renewable energy is allowing us to regain control over our cherished resources,” Kumpe stated. SunShare and NTU discussed the potential for job creation, from training programs to hands-on solar and wind energy installation, maintenance, and innovation roles. “This event exemplified what the legislators intended when they enacted the community solar legislation—community engagement, collaboration, partnership, and investment,” added Kumpe.

Dr. Guy and President Nygren presented Kumpe and Derichsweiler with an NTU Pendleton blanket as a sign of appreciation. The group also toured part of the campus.

Angel Charley, executive director of Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women, received the grant and gave insights into how it will be utilized and its ongoing commitment to expanding its program for tribal communities. Their vital mission is curbing violence and laying the foundation for resilient, thriving, tribal families and communities and for Native women.

“It is refreshing to witness NTU and the coalition’s progress in our communities. The social outreach of SunShare speaks to the company’s willingness to invest in our people’s progress; how unique,” stated New Mexico state senator Shannon D. Pinto.

The ceremony was concluded with congratulatory remarks from President Nygren, Wilbur Tso, and Jasmin Charley, student senate president.