Shantel Israel, a senior studying biology at Southern Utah University, has been crowned Miss Utah Navajo, according to a September 10 report. Israel received the title for the 2026-27 year from former Miss Utah Navajo Dayhenoa C. Yazzie.
During the Miss Navajo pageant, Israel demonstrated extensive knowledge regarding plant uses, reflecting a dedication to preserving nature. As Miss Utah Navajo, Israel plans to prioritize land conservation. She expressed her desire to not only advocate for the land but to actively care for it.
Israel aims to become a biology technician with the National Park Service to help protect her home. She credited her mother with providing her the voice necessary to be a leader.
Israel intends to use her knowledge of plant uses and various resources to create new ways to advocate for the protection and care of the land within her community.
Southern Utah University’s Department of Biology provides students with opportunities for research projects, labs, and field trips to nearby major ecoregions to prepare them for real-world change.
