For Utah’s Indigenous community, recognizing the achievements of individuals of similar heritage who are making a lasting impact is something worth celebrating.

On June 25, 2026, the University of Utah’s Center for Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement (NETE) hosted its annual Native Excellence Gala to honor 11 people who have made significant societal contributions.

The Native Excellence Awards amplify and celebrate individuals who exemplify Indigenous excellence and whose leadership inspires, uplifts and paves the path forward for the Indigenous community.

Brianna Esaw, recipient of the Native Excellence in the Community award, said highlighting Indigenous voices and accomplishments is very important, especially in today’s social climate.

“Despite the challenges, I have hope, especially since we’ve been seeing more indigenous people speaking up and also practicing their traditions in media and not being afraid to speak up and speak out on things,” she said. “I think it creates more of that drive, and more of that inspiration to continue to be Indigenous and to fight for your ability to be your true self.”

Bart Stevens was recognized with the Native Excellence Alumni Award. He said receiving the honor acknowledges all the work he’s done throughout his life on behalf of the Indigenous community.

“Like others who spoke today, I suffered from imposter syndrome despite coming from the reservation and being raised on the reservation. My dad was an officer for the Arizona Highway Patrol, so I lived on the Hopi, Navajo and Maricopa — several reservations,” he explained. “I would think why me? How do I get where I’m at when so many of our relatives don’t achieve as much?”

Just like the other honorees, he’s spent years doing his best to uplift his community and he finally feels validated.

“This proves that I can overcome the imposter syndrome,” Stevens said. “I’m not an imposter. I’m here for a reason. I’m here to do great things.”

Below is a full list of awards and recipients:

• Knowledge Keeper: Emeline Root
• Changemaker: Ronee Pawwinnee Wopsock
• Lifetime Achievement: Phillip Smith
• Native Excellence Alumni Award: Bart Stevens
• Native Excellence at the U: Joaquin Lopez-Huertas
• Native Excellence in PK-12 Education: Kimberly Dee
• Native Excellence in Higher Education: Ataya Cesspooch
• Native Excellence in the Community: Brianna Esaw
• Native Excellence in the Community: Stacie Denetsosie
• Community Partner Award: Natural History Museum of Utah
• Native Excellence in Health Equity: Dr. Kalani Raphael

“This event creates space to celebrate our community and share the many successes within it,” said NETE Director Samantha Eldridge. “Too often, conversations about Tribal communities are framed through a deficit lens. The Native Excellence Gala helps shift that narrative by highlighting the brilliance, knowledge, leadership, and strength that come from our communities.”

She added that while the gala recognizes students, leaders, and community partners, it also gives young Native students an opportunity to see what is possible for their own futures.

“Several of our speakers shared the challenges and barriers they had to overcome,” Eldridge said. “Their stories remind us that success is possible, and I hope our students leave feeling motivated, inspired, and proud of who they are and where they come from.”