Led by two faculty members from the School of Nursing, the trip followed the fall semester course, “Engaging with the Navajo Nation.”

“The course was a foundational preparation and inspirational segment that helped students get ready for the immersive trip,” said Erica Mumm, clinical associate professor of nursing.

The course helped students develop personal bonds, said Brian Cowley ’26, a nursing student who took the course and went on the trip. 

“It gave us important context that made the experience more meaningful and allowed us to approach the community with respect and understanding,” said Crowley. “It also gave us the opportunity to meet the group and faculty we would be traveling with, which helped build strong relationships ahead of time. Because of that, the trip felt more comfortable and cohesive from the start.”

 The trip was filled with unforgettable experiences that Mumm described as “transformative.”

“A stand-out moment was the Sweat Lodge. Students participated and now understand the deep meaning of sweat for the Navajo people,” said Mumm. “We also went to Coal Mine Canyon, where you can only go down with a Hopi guide. Down in the canyon is where Indigenous people hid during the Long Walk.”

Mumm emphasized how valuable directly interacting with the Navajo Nation is, especially for students going into healthcare. 

“It is important to understand culture and communities within our own nation,” said Mumm. “As nurses, we care for all people, so it is important to have a first-person account from a Navajo person to understand their history, day-to-day way of life, healthcare needs and their wants and desires. In our nursing textbooks, Indigenous people are underrepresented in special areas of care and health.”

Crowley valued this unique educational opportunity.

“This trip offered a different perspective on healthcare and allowed me to broaden my understanding of what community health looks like in other parts of the country,” said Crowley. 

Within the trip’s extraordinary learning environment, students also found friendship.

“Most of the students did not initially know each other,” Mumm said. “By the end of the trip, we were all very connected. When you are sitting in small space that is completely dark, you are sweating and sharing what you are grateful for the trip becomes a true bonding experience.” 

Students walked away from the trip with life-long memories and valuable lessons. Mumm said that students will expand their knowledge and careers following the trip. 

“Understanding the Navajo lifestyle and the significance of Navajo history makes the students more well-rounded people and more holistic nurses,” said Mumm. “The key is for students to go out and share what they learned so others can learn from their experience and understand the Navajo people more integrally.” 

Crowley said he was grateful that Quinnipiac offered him this opportunity. 

“Being able to travel and learn in a different environment through Quinnipiac was incredibly valuable, “said Crowley. “I appreciate how the university creates meaningful experiences that extend beyond the classroom.”

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