Tracie Yellowman Tséyíníítsó, a proud Diné Bit’ah’nÍÍ woman and the 2025 University of Utah student commencement speaker, will carry the strength of her ancestors with her on May 1 when she addresses the audience at the Jon M. Huntsman Center. 

“I come from a lineage of warriors, in particular my many times great-grandfather Hastíín K’aayéliii, whose resilience is instilled within me today and has given me the strength to survive and thrive in not only my everyday life but in my educational journey,” Yellowman Tséyíníítsó said. “That spirit is alive within me and guides me in every step I take.”

As a non-traditional student, Yellowman Tséyíníítsó’s educational journey took many unexpected steps. A foster care alumna from Díwóózhi Bíkóh’, Utah, she earned her associate degree immediately after high school at the local community college in Blanding, Utah. She then transferred to Utah State University to study engineering. Though she completed almost all of her coursework, she took a break due to unforeseen circumstances.

“My dad was in the industrial construction trade, so I started working for him, which led to my profession as a skilled pipe welder,” Yellowman Tséyíníítsó said.

During her break from higher education, Yellowman Tséyíníítsó continued to develop professionally while also starting a family and becoming deeply involved with the Native American Church of ÁshįįhbííTó, a Salt Lake City non-profit that provides support to Indigenous people across the state. 

“We help Native people have access to traditional Native American ceremonies for healing and provide cultural education to our youth,” she said. “We also fundraise to support other organizations that tirelessly work to help our Native community, like Utah Native Foster Care.”

The more Yellowman Tséyíníítsó became involved in this work, the more important it became to her to continue giving back to her Native American community. She knew if she could go back to school, she’d study something that helped her continue that work. 

A little over three years ago, Yellowman Tséyíníítsó’s life took a dramatic turn when she was hospitalized for two weeks with a blood infection that almost took her life. Doctors worried they’d have to amputate her arm, ending her pipe welding career. 

Though they were able to save it, the recovery process was long and Yellowman Tséyíníítsó knew she needed something meaningful to fill her time. She decided to take online classes from USU, but as a part-time student, she didn’t qualify for any scholarships. When the U began offering the Native Student Scholarship for Indigenous students enrolled in full-time coursework, Yellowman Tséyíníítsó decided to enroll in the U to study health education and promotion. 

“Walking into my first classroom here at the University of Utah after my long academic break was intimidating,” she said. “But I remembered something of my ancestors: we are equipped with the tools to endure, adapt and the courage to overcome. There, I adjusted my invisible quiver and bow, and I accepted that challenge.”

For Yellowman Tséyíníítsó, this challenge included adding not only coursework to her already busy life but an internship with the Utah Division of Indian Affairs and a practicum with Restoring Ancestral Winds Inc. as well. 

“When I first heard about these requirements, I was worried about the time they would add to my degree,” Yellowman Tséyíníítsó said. “But as I have participated in these opportunities, I have learned so many key things that will help me do the work I want to do.”

During her time at the U, Yellowman Tséyíníítsó has been an Impact Scholar, a member of the Crimson Transfer Honor Society, a Dean’s List recipient and earned a 4.0 GPA. She hopes her dedication and accomplishments inspire her children and peers to reach their goals. She has applied for graduate school and plans to earn a Master of Public Health. 

“I’m craving more information I can use to help my own Native American people, to ensure that I can help create a good environment for the health and future of our children,” she said. “The understanding and support from my husband, children and relatives encourage me to continue this momentum.

As Yellowman Tséyíníítsó approaches this exciting milestone, she says she can’t help but look around at her peers and feel so proud of what each one of them has done. 

“We all come from different walks of life, yet together we have shown remarkable resilience, professionalism and brilliance,” she said. “You’ve inspired me, and I know that as we step out into the world, we will continue to inspire others.” 

Hear more about Yellowman Tséyíníítsó’s experience at the General Commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 1, at 6 p.m. in the Jon M. Huntsman Center.