About Mark :

Minor: Communication and Political Science

Certificate in Honors Interdisciplinary Liberal Arts 

Ya’teeh (hello) this is Mark Freeland.  Mark is a member of the Navajo Nation from Crownpoint, New Mexico, where he resides.  As a Navajo man, ke’ and kinship are important to Mark as his clans are a representation as to who he is.  His clans are Tótsohníí/Kinyaa’áanii/ Tsénjíkíní and Tsenabahiłnii. 

Mark returned to the University of New Mexico as a non-traditional after a 26-year absence.  Since returning to the University of New Mexico in the Spring 2023, Mark has proven a lot to himself including his academic capabilities and severity of his situation. Mark is Majoring in Liberal Arts and Integrative Studies with a double minor in Communication and Political Science. He will also be receiving a certificate in Interdisciplinary Liberal Arts from the UNM Honors College.  

Mark has learned to become a researcher again, complete his assignments and displays commitment to his work itself.  He has grown, thrived and flourished as a Lobo. Mark will be completing his Undergraduate studies in May 2025 and looks forward to a Graduate Program either at UNM, Arizona State University or San Diego State University.   

Prior to his return to UNM, Mark served in Tribal Leadership with the Navajo Nation.  Mark was a Member of the 24th Navajo Nation Council serving from 2019-2023, representing 8 Navajo Chapters of Crownpoint, Nahodishgish, Tse’Ii’Ahi, Becenti, Lake Valley, White Rock, Huerfano and Nageezi in the New Mexico portion of the Navajo Nation.  He served as lawmaker and worked collaboratively with tribal members at a grass roots level.  Within this capacity Mark worked on many policy issues that impacted the Navajo People at the Washington, DC, State Capital and local Tribal Community levels. His platform and focus during my leadership tenure were focusing on addressing the lack of Basic Infrastructure needs of the Navajo People primarily those living without water, electricity and bathrooms. Mark was fortunate to serve as the prime Sponsor of the Navajo Nation’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) totaling over $1.0 billion where over $740.0 million was directed for basic infrastructure.   

Mark was fortunate to give back in more ways than one, especially at the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic. As a frontline worker during the pandemic, his primary goal is serving others who are at a disadvantage, socially and economically. His abilities are his strength. Mark felt he was able to thrive in environments where communication is vital relating to policy matters impacting our Navajo People. His personal ability to connect with others comes from listening first and foremost. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mark assisted in coordinating teams to deploy emergency relief efforts of water, food and firewood to our people in rural areas of the Navajo Nation.  The Navajo Nation, at one point held the highest number of infected COVID- 19 cases per capita, more than Los Angeles and New York City. This period of Mark’s life not only tested his abilities, but it also tested his determination, resilience and patience. Mark is thankful every day he was able to make a difference through helping others and giving back. 

Mark is also deeply grateful to the University of New Mexico. He credits his success to the unwavering support and resources provided by the faculty and staff, particularly in the Political Science and Honors College departments. “Mark has been fully engaged in his UNM experience, both inside and outside of the classroom, and giving back to the UNM and his home community. He’s a kind, compassionate leader who is always excited to continue to engage in lifelong learning and collaborating with others to create a positive impact on others and the community,” said Athena Gordon, senior academic advisor. 

Mark’s love for UNM is rooted in what the university represents: an opportunity for those who are willing to work hard to make their dreams a reality. His journey is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and the commitment to making a difference in the world. 

As he nears graduation, Mark plans to continue his work in policy and leadership, with the aim of pursuing a Master’s Degree in Public Policy. He is dedicated to advocating for his people and creating positive change in his community, and he looks forward to the next chapter of his journey. 

“Ah’ee’hee (thank you) UNM, and Go Lobos!”