Native American tribes declare war on California card rooms in new lawsuits

In Tsaile, Arizona, Charles 'Monty' Roessel, a prominent figure in Native American education, passed away at the age of 63 on January 1, 2025. Roessel served as president of Diné College since 2017, contributing significantly to its evolution into a four-year institution. His tenure at the college saw the establishment of various programs including the Navajo Nation tribal law program, which recently welcomed its inaugural class. Roessel’s background is deeply rooted in education; both of his parents were instrumental in founding the Rough Rock Community School and Navajo Community College, which is now known as Diné College. Roessel was not only an educator but also held notable positions, including a director at the Bureau of Indian Education, where he managed a network of nearly 200 schools serving Native American children across 20 states. His career faced challenges too, as his tenure at the Bureau ended following a 2016 investigation by the U.S. Interior Department's Office of Inspector General, which unearthed nepotism allegations. Roessel was recognized posthumously as a significant figure in the tribal college movement by the American Indian College Fund, highlighting his substantial impact on Native education. Delegate Carl Slater, his nephew, described him as a man who dedicated his life to advancing the cause of the Diné community, showcasing his integrity and commitment to fostering the education of learners from all backgrounds. His contributions to educational advancement for Native American students will be remembered and missed by the community he served zealously.