Lumberjacks Win Again!

For the fourth year in a row the Lumberjacks from Northern Arizona University (NAU) defended their Alumni Challenge title, pledging $1,425. Also, new to this years Challenge was the inclusion of high schools and Tuba City High School emerged as the victors with $190 pledged. Overall, $3,190 was pledged on behalf of the University of Arizona (UofA), Arizona State University (ASU), Haskell Indian Nations University, Harvard University, Air Force Academy, Ohio State University, Mesa & Scottsdale Community Colleges, and Hopi, Tuba City, Winslow, Flagstaff, Stewart Indian, and Washington High Schools.

From September 14th through October 19th, 2007, the challenge encouraged friendly rivalry and competition between five alumni groups, NAU, ASU, UofA, Out of State & Junior/Community colleges and high schools with the common goal of raising $6,000. The winners were then determined by which group pledged the most amount of funds.

As educational costs continue to rise, the alumni challenge is a great way for Hopi high school and college graduates to become involved in helping to offset educational expenses for future Hopi students. Mrs. LuAnn Leonard, HEEF Executive Director and NAU alumnus, stated, "This is a great way for Hopi college grads to say thanks and give back to the Hopi Tribe for the scholarship support they received while pursuing their degree(s)" She also added that although the HEEF did not meet our goal we are pleased to receive the continued support of new and past alumni, and that alumni can take pride in knowing that they are helping to ensure that educational opportunities will be available for the Hopi people now and into the future.

The HEEF thanks all of the participants for their generous support and encourages others to join the challenge next year as NAU and Tuba City High School look to defend their titles in 2008.