2 Mesa residents named Mesa Community College Native royalty

Raegen Ellis, Diné, was crowned Miss Native Mesa Community College and First Attendant Tanielle Klah, Diné, was sashed during a recent pageant at MCC.

Contestants participated in qualifying sessions including introducing themselves, answering impromptu questions, giving oral presentations of their platform and showcased both traditional and modern talents, according to a release.

Ellis is pursuing an associate of arts degree 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.

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,” Margaret Talia White, MCC senior student services specialist, said in the release. “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.