Public servant, Navajo legislator earns Outstanding Graduate distinction
Myron Tsosie is graduating this fall with his Master of Science in organizational leadership from ASU's School of Applied Professional Studies. Courtesy photo
Rep. Myron Tsosie, a member of the Navajo Nation from the small town of Chinle, Arizona, has been named the fall 2025 Outstanding Graduate for Arizona State University’s College of Integrative Sciences and Arts. He is graduating this fall with his Master of Science in organizational leadership from the School of Applied Professional Studies.
Tsosie, who represents District 6 in the Arizona House of Representatives and has served in public office since 2019, said his legislative work inspired him to return to school. The 46-year-old represented District 7 from 2019–23, then District 6 starting in 2023 after redistricting. Arizona’s Legislative District 6 spans the northeastern corner of the state, along with parts of eastern Arizona, and includes parts of the Navajo Nation and Hopi reservation.
Coursework on Indigenous women’s leadership broadened his perspective and deepened his understanding of collective governance, expanding how he approaches community-driven policy. Tsosie credits Assistant Teaching Professor Wade Lueck with teaching a lesson that stood out during his program — one that emphasized integrity in leadership and the willingness to engage difficult issues with openness.
“What sets Myron apart is his humility, perseverance and vision,” said Lueck. “Despite the demands of legislative duties, committee responsibilities and family life, he has pursued his graduate degree with determination and intellectual curiosity. He models what it means to be a lifelong learner and servant leader — using knowledge not for self-advancement, but to create meaningful, systemic change in his community and state. His ability to bridge cultures and institutions with empathy and purpose exemplifies the very essence of leadership that the organizational leadership program strives to develop.”
Tsosie said his study in organizational leadership provided practical benefits quickly, allowing him to consistently apply theoretical concepts and case studies to his real-time legislative work. He said he relied on careful planning and creative problem-solving in balancing his work schedule.
Tsosie offered this advice to students: “Focus on realistic goals, keep an open mind and use your creativity.”
Beyond graduation, he plans to continue serving in the Arizona House of Representatives while preparing for a future run for Arizona State Senate.
When asked what global issue he considers paramount, Tsosie said climate change tops his list — a stance aligned with his longstanding advocacy for environmental protection and sustainable futures for tribal communities.
Tsosie’s recognition by the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts honors a civic leader who excelled academically and immediately applied what he learned in the classroom to his public service career.
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