Yazza, from the Zuni and Navajo tribes, was crowned at the third annual Miss Native American USA Pageant in Tempe, Arizona.

Yazza is studying graphic design with a minor in entrepreneurship and small business management. She graduated from West Mesa High School in 2013.

Yazza, who is from Mentmore, New Mexico, received a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis just as she started college. She changed her diet to help ease the pain.

Over the summer, she was a resident assistant for family housing. When classes resume, she will be an orientation leader, welcoming freshmen and their families to the campus.

Herald Staff