The Board of Directors of Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission Inc. announce the appointment of Patterson Yazzie as Executive Director. The Board’s unanimous affirmation celebrates Yazzie as the first Navajo executive leader in the Mission’s nearly 70-year history.

Yazzie joined the Mission staff as Mission Director in August of 2019. Returning home after nearly 30 years, Yazzie brought with him the practiced skills of leadership, advocacy for Native concerns, and fundraising. He has a background in environmental science and strong knowledge and experience in nonprofit organization and management.

The appointment of Patterson Yazzie as Executive Director is the culmination of intentional effort to achieve a Navajo leadership staff, each uniquely equipped to support the community the Mission serves.

Yazzie will be installed on Sunday, July 3, at House of Prayer Lutheran Church. His grandfather became a Christian at House of Prayer in spring 1965.