Honoring the Journey, Paving Our Future…Class of 2026
Gabrielle Begay’s journey to graduation didn’t begin with a plan; it began with a push. Encouraged by her parents to take a chance on college, she found her way to Paradise Valley Community College, where she discovered something that would shape her entire experience: community.
Now graduating with her Associate of Science, Begay is continuing her path at Arizona State University to study kinesiology, with the goal of becoming a physical therapist in sports medicine and helping people heal, grow, and return to doing what they love.
At PVCC, Begay didn’t just find her place, she helped create it for others. An Honors student, she quickly immersed herself in campus life, serving as Vice President of Student Government, contributing to the Student Honors Advisory Council (SHAC), and now working closely with college leadership as the President’s Ambassador for Dr. Jana Schwartz.
Her journey also extended beyond campus through her involvement in the Student Public Policy Forum, where she connected with students across the Maricopa Colleges and brought an important perspective to the table. Begay spoke openly about Native American history, sharing the realities of displacement, forced relocation to reservations, and the lasting impacts still felt today, offering many of her peers a perspective they had never encountered before.
“Paradise Valley’s strongest trait is community,” Begay said. “If you go anywhere on this campus, you feel welcomed.” That sense of belonging inspired her to get involved and, in turn, help create that same welcoming space for others, especially students who may feel unsure or alone when they first arrive.
As she looks ahead, Begay carries with her the lessons of leadership, connection, and courage – values that reflect the spirit of the Class of 2026.
Her advice for future Pumas is simple, but powerful: say yes. Say yes to opportunities, to leadership, to growth, even when it feels intimidating. “Don’t talk yourself out of anything,” she said. “Just dive in headfirst.”