All graduates stand in front of the stage for an honor song following the presentation of the Pendleton blankets and collegiate honoree plaques on Saturday afternoon at the Fort Lewis College Ballroom. Each year, graduates from both high school level to college level, have the opportunity to celebrate their achievement with members of their families while also being recognized by the Southern Ute Tribal Council, Southern Ute Education Department, and the JOM Committee. The Graduation Banquet concluded with photo ops, gift exchanges, and dessert.

Southern Ute tribal member, Gracelynn Thompson receives a Pendleton blanket for earning her Associate of Applied Science as a Barber. Southern Ute Chairman, Marvin Pinnecoose and Council Member, Linda Baker, wrap Thompson in her blanket before presenting her with a plaque for her achievement.

Southern Ute tribal member, Gibran Silva, holds two plaques after earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting. Silva and all other honorees received a Pendleton blanket denoting their graduation achievement in both the high school and collegiate levels.

Southern Ute tribal member, Cameron Bean, MD takes the stage as the keynote speaker on Saturday, July 18 during the Graduation Banquet, hosted by the Southern Ute Education Department and Johnson O’Malley (JOM) Committee. Recent high school and collegiate graduates were honored by the department with a meal, guest speakers, and gifts in the Fort Lewis College Ballroom on Saturday afternoon.

Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum