Background and Early Life
Diana “Dede” Yazzie Devine was born in Lansing, Michigan, the middle child of seven siblings. Dan Devine, her football coach father, moved the family often as a child. This diverse background gave her a strong feeling of community and perseverance, which shaped her career.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 1975 |
| Place of Birth | Lansing, Michigan |
| Number of Siblings | 6 |
| Father’s Profession | Football Coach |
Education and Career Beginnings
At the University of Wisconsin, Diana interned on the Ojibwe reservation and got excellent experience. Since the Indian Self-Determination Act was passed at the same time, this encounter helped her appreciate tribal sovereignty and Native American struggles.
| Educational Background | Details |
|---|---|
| University Attended | University of Wisconsin |
| Internship Location | Ojibwe Reservation |
| Key Legislative Influence | Indian Self-Determination Act |
Native American Connections leadership
Diana Yazzie Devine became Native American Connections president and CEO in 1979. The nonprofit expanded rapidly under her direction, providing behavioral health support, affordable housing, and workforce training to Native American communities in Phoenix and beyond.
| Leadership Milestones | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Year Became CEO | 1979 |
| Years in Leadership | Over 40 years |
| Services Expanded | Behavioral health, housing, training |
Family Life
Diana proudly raises her three children alone while working. Her childhood principles of compassion and community drove her parenting and are important to her family.
| Family Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Number of Children | 3 |
| Parenting Role | Primarily Single Mother |
| Grandchildren | 9 |
| Great-Grandchild | 1 |
Recognition and Awards
Diana Yazzie Devine has garnered many awards for her community service and charitable leadership. As one of Arizona’s Most Influential Women, she was named Valley Leadership’s Woman of the Year.
| Awards and Recognition | Details |
|---|---|
| Most Influential Women in Arizona | Various years (2012-2024) |
| Valley Leadership’s Woman of the Year | Specific year not mentioned |
| Other Honors | Multiple community impact awards |
Community Impact
Diana’s Native American Connections has helped many people with housing, childcare, and mental health. Her commitment to helping Native American families has made her a key role in Arizona’s charity sector.
| Community Contributions | Services Offered |
|---|---|
| Behavioral Health Support | Yes |
| Housing Services | Yes |
| Childcare Services | Yes |
Personal Philosophy
Diana credits her childhood family and community values for her social change activism. She works hard for the community and sees her life’s work as a reflection of her upbringing.
| Personal Beliefs | Details |
|---|---|
| Community Value | Strong belief in community support |
| Passion for Advocacy | Driven by personal experiences |
| Impact of Childhood | Significant influence on career |
FAQ
What are Diana Yazzie Devine’s accomplishments?
Diana’s leadership of Native American Connections has touched thousands of lives through support programs and earned her several honors.
How did Diana’s childhood affect her career?
Her career reflects her devotion to serve others, which was ingrained in her by her large family and strong community values.
What services does Native American Connections offer?
Behavioral health, affordable housing, and workforce training are its main services for Native Americans.
How many relatives does Diana have?
Diana’s three children, nine granddaughters, and one great-grandchild are important to her.
How has Diana changed society?
Diana has led Native American Connections to address housing, mental health, and childcare challenges, benefiting the community.
