MESA, Arizona – March 23, 2016 – The public is invited to participate in the 2016 MCC Powwow featuring American Indian dancers, drummers, art and cuisine. The Powwow will be held at MCC (1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa), near the tennis courts, on Saturday, April 2 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sponsored by the MCC Inter-Tribal Student Organization the Powwow will showcase indigenous talent and provide a source of funding for student scholarships.

“Our American Indian Institute is looking forward to sharing our culture and rich heritage with members of the community,” said Yvonne Dinehdeal, director, MCC American Indian Institute. “The festivities will provide a link to the past that helps maintain Native Heritage and the proceeds will serve as an investment in the future through scholarships for MCC’s American Indian students.”

Miss Native MCC 2015-16, Clara-Ellen Geromana Puanani Stant-Trim (Navajo, Hopi, Hawaiian), will serve as a representative for the event. Trim will graduate from MCC in May 2016 and plans to continue her education to earn a bachelor’s degree and a Ph.D. and pursue a career as a school psychologist.

Additional information and Powwow etiquette, for those who are unfamiliar, has been posted on MCC’s website at mesacc.edu/powwow.

Powwow attendees will be invited to consider a monetary donation to the Charleston Gray Memorial scholarship fund, honoring “Charles” Gray who was a member of the Navajo Nation and the MCC Inter-Tribal Student Organization.