Help a Diné Student Start Her College Journey

Yá'át'ééh (Hello), my name is Rodericka, and I’m an 18-year-old Diné student from Whiteclay, Arizona. This May, I’ll proudly graduate from Navajo Preparatory School in Farmington, New Mexico, an achievement I’ve worked hard toward, not just for myself, but for my family and my community.

I’m excited to share that I’ve been accepted to Widener University in Pennsylvania, where I’ll begin my next chapter this fall. Through determination and support, I’ve secured scholarships to help cover most of my college costs. However, I still need help paying my $400 admissions fee, which will officially secure my spot at Widener. Everything else, my paperwork, enrollment steps, and plans, is in place. I just need a little help to make it all come together.

I’ve always believed in giving back and staying active in school and my community. At Navajo Prep, I was involved in:

• Speech and Debate

• Student Council, where I served as Vice President two terms, Secretary, Treasurer/Student Senate

• Gifted and Talented for Naat’aanii Youth Council

• Gifted and Talented for Art

• Natural Helpers

• National Honor Society

• National Society of High School Scholars

• Proud blood donor

• Cross Country

• Chess Club

• Community Service

These experiences have helped shape my voice, leadership, and values, and they continue to guide me toward a future of making change.

In addition to the admissions fee, any extra funds raised will help with travel costs to Pennsylvania and a small graduation reception to celebrate this important milestone with my family and friends. Initially, we hadn’t planned for a reception, but after some requests from loved ones, we’re hoping to organize something meaningful to honor this big step.

I’m reaching out with hope and gratitude. If you’re able to support or share my story, know that it will make a real difference. Every dollar helps me take one step closer to college and to a future where I can give back even more.

Ahéhee’ (Thank you) for your support and belief in me.