By Logan Wilbur

Representatives of Utah State University and the Navajo Nation broke ground for the long-awaited academic building in a ceremony on Friday, August 2. The education building, which will be located just northwest of Monument Valley High School, will serve students and community members of the Navajo Nation.

“The new USU Monument Valley Education Building strengthens the commitment to higher education and opportunities to rural and Indigenous communities,” says Kristian Olsen, senior associate vice president for USU Blanding. “It’s the culmination of the effort of so many people over decades to make this dream a reality.”

The education building will include modern classrooms, computer labs, a nursing and CNA lab, a career & technical education lab, a small business development space, a welding lab, spaces for adult education and USU Extension, and administrative and faculty offices.

“To me, this university is sacred. It will help this community,” says Don Mose Jr., a community member and respected elder of the Navajo Nation. “This university is going to be a seed that will be planted here in Monument Valley so our children can learn how to help themselves and blend the two worlds together. You no longer have to go off the reservation to get your education. The kids do not have an excuse anymore; they have it all here.”

Prior to the ceremony a prayer was offered by André Haycock, a Medicine Man from Monument Valley. USU President Elizabeth Cantwell, Navajo Nation Council Delegate Herman Daniels Junior, Olsen, and others gave remarks to those in attendance, highlighting the importance of education and the impact the building will have on future students and the entire Monument Valley community.

An exact opening date of the approximately 10,000-square-foot building has yet to be announced, however the building is expected to be completed in early 2026.