San Juan College High School (SJCHS) proudly announces the graduation of its Class of 2026, marking the school’s seventh cohort of trailblazing students.
Time to Celebrate
Ten years into the school’s mission of academic excellence, SJCHS continues to empower students to achieve beyond expectations. This year’s graduates represent the largest class in school history, reflecting the growth of SJCHS and the broad opportunities available through dual enrollment at San Juan College (SJC).
Record-Breaking Achievements and Degrees Earned
The Class of 2026 includes 80 students who collectively earned an impressive array of college credentials. Graduates received:
- 63 Associate Degrees
- 72 Certificates across six schools at San Juan College
This milestone demonstrates the wide range of academic pathways SJCHS offers, preparing students for higher education, careers and lifelong success. From healthcare to STEM, business and the arts, Griffin students have left their mark across diverse fields.
Exceptional Student Honors and Awards
The Class of 2026 includes students whose achievements have garnered statewide and national recognition:
- 3 Daniels Fund Scholars: Ilona Dalton, June Loukinas and Emma Rubenstein
- 2 UNM BA/MD Admits: Jayden Narciso and Braxton Yazzie
- First Advanced Petroleum Production Operations (APPO) Degree: Nathaniel Wood
- 1 Student with a perfect 4.0 GPA: Kennedy Brown
- First CNA Certificates: Mykayla Clitso and Shawndae Haungooah
- First Esthetician Certificate: Brielle Rogers
- First Navajo Bilingual Seal at SJCHS: Amber Bizardie
- 4 Spanish Bilingual Seals: Millie Delgado, Emilio Orozco, Sophia Palacios and Liliana Vega-Lopez
- 6 SJC Honors Graduates: Sonyabelle Graves, Abril Gutierrez, Jayden Narciso, Emma Rubenstein, Colby Tsosie and Trinity Hazelwood
Students have also distinguished themselves as International Science Fair competitors, SkillsUSA State Champions and E-sports State Champions, highlighting their versatility and dedication.
Spotlight on Kennedy Brown: Griffin Scholar 2026
Kennedy Brown was named the Griffin Scholar for 2026, a distinction recognizing outstanding academic achievement, leadership and school involvement. Brown, who earned a perfect 4.0 GPA, will deliver the student speech at SJCHS graduation this May. She plans to attend the University of New Mexico (UNM), where she will double major in Political Science and Finance in preparation for law school.
Scholarship Programs Empowering SJCHS Students
Graduates of SJCHS benefit from access to prestigious scholarships and opportunities that support higher education:
- Daniels Fund Scholarship: Offers four-year college scholarships for students demonstrating leadership, character and community commitment.
- Davis New Mexico Scholarship: Provides first-generation college students with full-ride tuition to affiliated institutions.
- UNM BA/MD Program: A full-ride scholarship to the University of New Mexico, including a guaranteed spot in UNM’s Medical School.
- Navajo and Spanish Bilingual Seals: Awarded by the New Mexico Public Education Department to students demonstrating proficiency in a language other than English.
These scholarships reinforce SJCHS’s mission to make higher education accessible, equitable and tailored to student passions.
A Legacy of Success
With graduates earning college degrees, professional certificates and statewide recognition, the Class of 2026 leaves a legacy of achievement for future Griffins.
Join us in celebrating the Class of 2026 and explore the opportunities at San Juan College High School!
