02/26/2026
Diné College Mourns Esteemed Leader and Educator, Rex Lee Jim
TSAILE, Ariz., Feb. 24, 2026. Diné College announced with great sadness the passing of Rex Lee Jim, a distinguished leader, scholar, and cherished member of the Diné College community. Mr. Jim passed away on February 24, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Rex Lee Jim was born and raised in Rock Point, Ariz. He was of the KinŁichíi’nii (Red House People) and born for the Táchii’nii (Red Streak Running into Water People). His maternal grandfather was of the Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House People), and his paternal grandfather was of the Naakaii Diné’e (Mexican People).
A fierce advocate for Navajo sovereignty and a pillar of education, Mr. Jim dedicated his life to serving his people. He was fluent and literate in Navajo, English, and Spanish and consistently championed the vision of a stronger, healthier, and wealthier Indigenous Nation. His skills included conflict resolution, curriculum and program development, policy development, and fundraising. His leadership influenced a generation of educators and community leaders.
Mr. Jim’s extensive academic background included a Master of Letters in English (2019) and a Master of Arts in English from Middlebury College, VT; a Bachelor of Arts in English from Princeton University, NJ; a high school diploma from Colorado Rocky Mountain School in Carbondale, CO; and early education at New Foundling School (Asheville, NC), Rock Point Community School (Rock Point, Ariz.), and Rock Point Community School Elementary. He was a Blessing Way Singer at the Diné School of Ceremonial Science in the Navajo Nation and cherished for his traditional knowledge.
His journey with Diné College was marked by a deep commitment to its students and the preservation of Diné culture and language. Throughout his tenure, he held numerous significant roles, including Education Specialist, Instructional Specialist, and Executive Director of the Navajo Sovereignty Institute. Beyond Diné College, he was Executive Director at La Casa Roja, Inc. at the Indigenous Leadership and Learning Institute; Chief Executive Officer for Global Indigenous Solutions, LLC (2015); and Director at Navajo Community Health Outreach, Community Outreach and Patient Empowerment/Partners in Health (2014–2019).
A dedicated educator, Mr. Jim held several positions at Diné College, including faculty in English and Diné Studies, Dean of the School of Diné Studies and Education, Adjunct Faculty, and Education Specialist, as well as an Instructional Specialist at the Center for Diné Teacher Education (1999–2002). Earlier in his career, he was a secondary teacher at Rock Point Community School.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Jim was also a celebrated poet and playwright, writing extensively from 1980 until his passing, and producing works in Navajo, Spanish, and English. He was involved in acting and directing for the Ohoditeel Acting Ensemble (2000), the Da Navaho Deeado theater group (director, 1997–1999), and Dramatic Connection at Rock Point Community School, including youth drama clubs (1994–1999). He was President of the Native American group at Princeton (1983–1986) and served as Trustee with the Princeton-in-Asia Program (1984–1985).
He loved learning languages, including Japanese and Portuguese, and was a master of public speaking, workshop facilitator, and participant in numerous seminars. A prolific writer, he authored several books, articles, essays, poems, and plays, and produced films and video projects. He served on multiple boards, including President of Canyon de Chelly Comprehensive Health Services, and was honored with several awards throughout his life. His philosophy and leadership always followed the guiding principles of the Sa’ah Naagháí Bik’eh Hózhóón.
Mr. Jim was a respected traditional knowledge holder and a former Vice President of the Navajo Nation (2011 - 2015), dedicating his life to serving his people. He served with the 21st Navajo Nation Council (2003-2011). At the time of his passing, Vice President Jim was in the final stages of his Social Justice PhD program at Arizona State University. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the Navajo community and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family will host a gathering to honor his memory on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at the Rock Point Chapter House in Rock Point, Arizona. For those who wish to offer support, monetary donations can be made via Zelle to 928-245-7002.
The Diné College community extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Rex Lee Jim. He will be profoundly missed.
