MESA, Ariz. -- March 28,2024 -- Raegen Ellis, Diné, was crowned Miss Native Mesa Community College and First Attendant Tanielle Klah, Diné, was sashed during a pageant at MCC in February. Contestants participated in qualifying sessions including introducing themselves, answering impromptu questions, giving oral presentations of their platform and showcased both traditional and modern talents.

Raegan Ellis is pursuing an associate of arts with a concentration in social work and plans to transfer to ASU after graduation. Her platform as Miss Native MCC encompasses self healing with a goal of promoting self-love and care within the community through events and seminars. She is also passionate about the MCC DJ program and hopes to become a professional DJ.

Tanielle Klah, also known as “Billy” is studying psychology at MCC. As First Attendant, Klah plans to continue to learn more about Indigenous cultures and provide community outreach to help protect and support Native youth. On campus, she holds many positions

including serving as a student senator for Psi-Beta, a Community College National Honor Society in Psychology; a member of Seeds of Wisdom, and a cabinet member handling public relations for MCC’s Inter-Tribal Student Organization. The Mesa resident plans to get her Masters in Psychology Research at ASU to continue supporting Native youth.

“We are incredibly pleased with the success of the Miss Native MCC Pageant,” said Margaret Talia White, MCC senior student services specialist. “The outgoing royalty did an exceptional job reestablishing the foundation of Miss Native MCC. Now, with the new incoming royalty Miss Native MCC Raegen Ellis and First Attendant Tanielle Klah we are excited to benefit from their accomplishments. They are deeply committed to connecting with marginalized populations, encouraging them to attend MCC by embracing pathways of healing, strength and resilience."

The Royalty Court will host and attend events throughout their reign to promote their platforms. Groups wanting to schedule an appearance are encouraged to contact the MCC American Indian Institute at missnativemcc@mesacc.edu or call 480-461-7931.

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Media contact: Drea Yazzie, quindrea.yazzie@mesacc.edu or 480-461-7056.

Mesa Community College (MCC), which is celebrating its 60th anniversary during 2025, is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, and innovative education. Serving over 25,500 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 8,500 hours of community service annually. For nearly 60 years, MCC has been a key resource for education, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees, and it boasts the largest indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges. The MCC American Indian Institute supports students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. MCC's diverse student body includes hundreds of international students. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education and training. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, on the traditional lands of the O'odham, Piipaash, and Yavapai Peoples, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu.

MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.