MISSION

• To foster open communication between Arizona State University and American Indian Tribes.

• Ensure that all those who attend ASU receive appropriate student support services.

• Work to recruit, retain, and increase the graduation rates of Native American students.

• Promote and support Native American programming throughout the university

BIOGRAPHIES

Dr. Peterson Zah
Special Advisor to the President on American Indian Affairs

In 1995, Dr. Zah was recruited by ASU to help address the education concerns of the growing Native American student population and their respective communities.

Dr. Zah continues to work with a variety of entities to improve the education of all Native people.

• Advances the New American University vision
• Bridges ASU with Native Nations; launch exemplar initiatives
• Assists in recruitment and retention of American Indian students
• Engages in development activities
• Voice and advocates on behalf of American Indian students and programs
• Meets with students and families
• Presents in classes, national/local conferences, graduations, special events
• Represents ASU in Tribal, state, and federal government relations
• Serves on several national/local boards and committees; Harvard Honoring Nations, Native Nation Institute, Arizona Community Foundation, Maricopa Community Colleges, ASU Construction in Indian Country, and ASU Indian Legal Program.

Goggle: Peterson Zah

Jaynie Parrish
Coordinator, Projects and Operations

Jaynie (Diné) is originally from the Window Rock and Kayenta communities on the Navajo Nation. She is a graduate of Arizona State University with a Bachelors of Interdisciplinary Studies Degree and received a Certificate in American Indian Justice Studies.

Jaynie has worked as an educator and advocate on behalf of Indigenous communities and various non-profit organizations throughout the United States. She has served as Legislative Associate, Manager of Strategic Relations, Program Coordinator, and Youth Advocate, all in the service to strengthen local communities by way of education, shaping pending legislation, promoting community service, advancing the arts, and developing community infrastructure.

With this commitment she returned to her ASU roots and works to develop ASU’s relationship with Tribal Nations.

• Represents the office and coordinates project initiatives
• Assists with Dr. Zah’s schedule
• Initiates marketing and media relations
• Maintains relationship and activities with all other ASU programs/services, faculty, staff, and students
• Assists in development activities
• Serves on several ASU internal committees; ASU Construction in Indian Country, AmeriCorps*VISTA Advisory Council, Native American Advisory Council, Questar and Wassaja