Shił Nahólne’ symposium names new Navajo Nation Poet Laureate

ALBUQUERQUE – In celebration of National Poetry Month, Navajo Technical University’s BFA Creative Writing Program and the Navajo Nation Poet Laureate Committee honored the literary arts and community storytellers during the 3rd Annual Shił Nahólne’: Literary Arts and Oral Stories Symposium, held April 17-18 at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

The event announced Matthew Jake Skeets as the new Navajo Nation Poet Laureate for 2025–2027. Inaugural Laureate Luci Tapahonso, current Laureate Laura Tohe, and the NTU Arts and Humanities faculty presented Skeets with an NTU robe and plaque, recognizing his achievement and underscoring the vital role of creative writing and storytelling in Diné life and culture.

Skeets, Diné, holds a master’s degree in poetry from the Institute of American Indian Arts. He is the author of Eyes Bottle Dark with a Mouthful of Flowers and the recipient of several prestigious honors, including the National Poetry Series Award, the Kate Tufts Discovery Award, the American Book Award, and the Whiting Award. Skeets currently teaches at the University of Oklahoma. More about his work is available at jakeskeets.com.

The symposium also featured storytellers and artists such as songwriter and musician Hataałii, writer and director Billy Luther, renowned poet Hershman John, singer and performer Talibah Begay, and costume designer Asa Benally. Each shared personal stories, creative techniques, and lessons learned on their artistic journeys, offering inspiration and practical advice to emerging artists.

NTU BFA students presented original poems and short stories to guest speakers and visiting students from Tó Hajiileehé Community School and Cuba Independent School District. Among them, NTU student Tamara June Yazzie, studying early childhood multicultural education, passionately shared her grandmother’s stories to inspire young writers and readers.

Recognizing the power of stories as medicine – offering solace, guidance, and a sense of belonging – the symposium drew participation from language arts educators, literature instructors, and Navajo language and culture teachers. Joe Kee, an associate professor at UNM Gallup, emphasized Diné philosophy in his presentation, “Hodílzingo Oodááł — Walking in Reverence,” encouraging harmony with the natural world and respect for all life.

By hosting this symposium, NTU reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence and to nurturing the next generation of voices in literary and creative arts.