Welcome our 2026 NASWAC Cohort!

The Center for Native American Cancer Health Equity (C-NACHE) is delighted to introduce the third annual cohort of the Native American Student Webinar Advisory Coalition (NASWAC)!

Representing a wide range of tribal nations, universities, academic disciplines, and degree levels, this exceptional group of student leaders brings a wealth of lived experience, academic insight, and cultural knowledge to the table. Their collective contributions will strengthen the NASWAC program’s mission to uplift Indigenous voices and expand culturally grounded approaches to cancer health equity.

In collaboration with the Arizona Department of Health Services, this year’s cohort will gain hands-on experience in webinar coordination and facilitation with the Tribal Cancer Collaborative webinar series. Through mentorship, collaboration, and outreach, these scholars are poised to drive impactful conversations and learning opportunities rooted in Native community knowledge and priorities.

Scroll down to meet each member of this inspiring coalition! 

Headshot photo of Gabriel Baca wearing a black top and tan blazer with a brick background. Photo courtesy of Native Forward Scholars Fund.

Gabriel Baca (San Carlos Apache Tribe) 

Pronouns: He/Him/His 

Hometown: Morenci, Arizona 

University/college: Northern Arizona University 

Academic level: Graduate Masters 

Program of study: Physician Assistant Studies 

I am a first generation college student, an older brother of 4, and a role model to many now. My background spans from medical clinics, to community health, education, and research. So, within my professional career, I have aligned myself well in the cancer prevention and surveillance space and made many connections which led me to my current profession as a Physician Assistant. That being said, I hope to be able to use my knowledge as a provider to give back to my community (as well as other tribal nations) and be the generalist that I am training to be. My role is keen on being flexible, approachable, and always willing to provide a hand, and I would bring just that. 
Landscape photo of Morenci, Arizona
Morenci, Arizona
Headshot photo of Tianna Curley wearing a black cardigan and long beaded earrings

Tianna Curley (Navajo Nation) 

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers 

Hometown: Kayenta, Arizona 

University/college: Diné College 

Academic level: Undergraduate Senior 

Program of study: Public Health 

I am a Senior at Dine College, obtaining my Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health. I am also interning for the Healthy Navajo Ke’ Project, doing my research on gestational diabetes in AI/AN women and mothers. I am a full-time student and mother to a 6-year-old son. I would describe my personality as ambitious, friendly, and goal oriented. 
Landscape photo of Kayenta, Arizona
Kayenta, Arizona
Headshot photo of Lortis Eriacho wearing gold glasses with a black top, turquoise necklace and silver earrings.

Lortis Eriacho (Navajo Nation) 

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers 

Hometown: Pinehill, New Mexico 

University/college: Diné College 

Academic level: Undergraduate Senior 

Program of study: Public Health 

Ya’at’eeh! I am a Navajo student currently pursuing a public health degree from Dine College. I’m interested in learning anything that I can that will help me be successful in my future career. I really would like to be able to make any positive impact in any way I can with my degree, especially one that will benefit native people. It is a huge goal of mine.
Landscape photo of Pinehill, New Mexico
Pinehill, New Mexico
Headshot photo of Cynthia Nelson wearing a white top with a floral skirt and wrap up moccasins adorned by turquoise jewelry

Cynthia Nelson (Navajo Nation) 

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers 

Hometown: Oljato, Utah 

University/college: Northern Arizona University 

Academic level: Undergraduate Junior 

Program of study: Biomedical Science 

Yá’át’ééh. I am Cynthia Gwen Nelson. My clans are Hashkʼąą hadzohí, Tódichinii, Tłʼízí łání, and Kin łichííʼnii. I am a Diné woman from Oljato, Utah, currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science with a minor in Applied Indigenous Studies at Northern Arizona University. I am the eldest of my siblings and come from a family deeply rooted in our Navajo culture and community. Professionally, I serve as a Lead Instructor and Community Coordinator at the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals, where I facilitate workshops and outreach focused on human health and environmental awareness. I also support unsheltered relatives through my work with Community Assistance Teams of Flagstaff. Driven by lifelong prayer, I strive to better myself, support my family, and give back to my people in meaningful ways. 
Landscape photo of Oljato, Utah
Oljato, Utah
Headshot photo of Autumn Russell wearing a brown long sleeve top and dark brown glasses with a bridge and river in the background

Autumn Russell (Navajo Nation) 

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers 

Hometown: Fort Defiance, Arizona 

University/college: Diné College 

Academic level: Undergraduate Junior 

Program of study: Public Health 

Ya’ateeh! I am Autumn Russell, a Navajo undergrad student attending Dine College, and I am majoring in public health. I discovered my love of public health around my senior year of high school and decided to pursue it ever since. I am interested in epidemiology and learning how research can help indigenous communities. I am trying to push myself out of my comfort zone and gain more professional development skills. I learned about this program at the 2024 American Public Health Association (APHA) conference when I was a sophomore and I’ve wanted to join ever since! My career goals are to conduct research and present it in a conference and to receive my bachelors in public health. 
Landscape photo of Fort Defiance, Arizona
Fort Defiance, Arizona
Headshot photo of Melaina Shirley wearing a black blazer with turquoise earrings

Melaina Shirley (Navajo Nation) 

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers 

Hometown: Sanostee, New Mexico 

University/college: San Juan College 

Academic level: Undergraduate Senior 

Program of study: Pre-Nursing 

My name is Melaina Shirley, and I am a member of the Navajo Nation. I grew up on the northern side of the reservation for the majority of my life. I am a recent graduate of New Mexico State University with a bachelor’s degree in public health and an associate’s degree in physical education and exercise science. I am also an active-duty service member in the United States Air Force and will soon be a veteran in May. This fall, I plan to attend San Juan College to complete the prerequisite courses for the nursing program at Arizona State University. My hobbies include spending time with my cats, attending group exercise classes, cooking new recipes, hiking, diamond painting, and traveling. 
Landscape photo of Sanostee, New Mexico
Sanostee, New Mexico
Center for Native American Cancer Health Equity
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Building
Applied Research and Development
1395 Knoles Drive
Flagstaff, AZ 86011