2026 Frank Harrison & Harry Austin Voting Rights Scholarship Essay Contest Recipients

DANIELLE WILLIAMS is a citizen from the Navajo Nation and from Steamboat, Arizona. She is a mother, educator, and a doctoral candidate. Ms. Williams earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in management from Northern Arizona University and a Master of Public Administration with an emphasis in government and policy from Grand Canyon University. Ms. Williams is pursuing a Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Higher Education. Ms. Williams’ long-term research will focus on exploring Native American student success in higher education.

TALAYA HOSTEEN is a Diné scholar and advocate driven by a deep love for her people and a commitment to tribal sovereignty. Raised within a powerful matriarchy where women led with strength and resilience, she drew her inspiration and purpose directly from their example. As a first-generation college student starting her master’s program at Northern Arizona University in Fall 2026, she is channeling that heritage into public health promotion and cancer research to confront the critical resource gaps in Indigenous healthcare. Grounded in the Diné principle of T’áá hwó’ ájít’éego, the belief that self-determination begins with our own efforts. She pours her heart into research and community organizing to build a healthier and more empowering future for generations to come.

VANESSA JAMES-WILLIE is a dedicated Public Health student, with a minor in Health & Wellness and Indigenous Health Studies at Northern Arizona University. She is deeply committed to advancing health equity and uplifting Indigenous communities through advocacy and leadership. As an active member of NAU Council of Indigenous Ambassadors, she helps create inclusive space and culturally grounded programming for students. Vanessa brings strong academic discipline, compassion, and a collaborative spirit to anything she undertakes. She wants to continue her education after graduation on Spring 2027 by doing a graduate program at Northern Arizona University, pursuing an MPH focusing on maternal and child health.

WILLETTE EDWARDS is a proud Diné (Navajo) citizen from Tuba City, Arizona, dedicated to serving her community through leadership and civic engagement. She works as a Project Supervisor for the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, helping expand access to essential utility services for families across the Navajo Nation. She is pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Relations to strengthen her ability to serve Indigenous communities. Willette believes voting is both a right and a responsibility, and she is committed to encouraging civic participation while honoring the legacy of Native leaders who fought to protect the right to vote.