Thomas Atcitty facts for kids

Thomas Atcitty (born November 1, 1933 – died October 11, 2020) was an important American leader and teacher. He was a member of the Navajo Nation. He served in the government of New Mexico and later became the Vice President and then the President of the Navajo Nation.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Atcitty was born in Shiprock on November 1, 1933. He finished high school at Navajo Mission High School in 1954. After that, he went to several colleges, including Taylor University, the University of Colorado, and Gannon University. He also served his country in the United States Marine Corps.

Career Highlights

Working in Education

Thomas Atcitty started working at the Navajo Community College in 1969. In the 1970s, he became the college's vice-president. He was chosen to be the president of the college on February 8, 1973. He led the college until he left his position on March 1, 1977.

Political Journey

Atcitty was elected to the New Mexico House of Representatives. This is a group of lawmakers who help make rules for the state of New Mexico. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He worked there until January 1995. While in the House, he led a committee that focused on consumer and public matters.

Later, Atcitty became the running mate for Albert Hale in the 1994 Navajo Nation presidential election. They won the election, and Atcitty became the Vice President of the Navajo Nation. He left his job in the New Mexico House of Representatives to take on this new role.

In February 1998, President Hale stepped down from his position. This meant that Thomas Atcitty became the President of the Navajo Nation. However, he served only for a short time. In July 1998, the Navajo Nation Council removed him from office because of issues with ethical rules. During his time as president, he received the Medgar Evers Award from the NAACP.

Later Years

Thomas Atcitty passed away on October 11, 2020, when he was 86 years old.