On a mission to preserve Native culture

Lynn Valbuena, vice chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, and Jacob Coin, the tribe’s executive director of public affairs, visited NAU on May 7 to meet with campus leaders and architects regarding the future design of a Native American cultural center on the Flagstaff campus. The tribe, based in California, donated $2 million toward building the center.

“We are all excited about Northern Arizona University as a venue for a Native cultural center and hope it will strengthen and help students share their cultural traditions,” Valbuena said. “It is important that tribes preserve their cultural identities so we don’t forget who we are and where we come from.”

Valbuena also greeted graduates during the university’s Native American convocation.

“Follow your heart and all that is good about Native people,” Valbuena told the crowd that filled Ardrey Auditorium.