The Ute Indian Tribe was very well represented at this year’s annual University of Utah Native Excellence Gala held in the Natural History Museum of Utah last month. The Native Ascent Scholars Housing Scholarship recipients were Ute Tribe members Devinity Tauaalo, Adrian Morales, James Shavanaux-Dunn, and Dowawisnima Groves. Groves was also awarded the Native Excellence Union Student Leadership Scholarship. Shavanaux-Dunn was also a recipient of the Ron Wopsock American Indian Leadership Scholarships Ute Scholarship. Ataya Cesspooch was awarded this year’s Native Excellence in Higher Education Award. Cesspooch is an Associate Professor at the University of Utah and an Indigenous student advocate. Dr. Ronee Wopsock Pawwinnee, the Ute Tribe Education Director, was awarded the Gala’s Changemaker Award. Finally, Emeline Natchees Root was awarded the Knowledge Keeper Award. Congratulations to all the Ute Tribe award recipients at this year’s Native Excellence Gala. The July 8, 2026, Ute Bulletin shares a full detailed report on this year’s Native Excellence Gala.
Photo Cred: Janae Duffy, Ute Bulletin
