CROWNPOINT, N.M. – New Mexico Sen. John Pinto, one of the longest-serving Native American legislators in U.S. history, will be recognized with an honorary degree.
The Gallup Independent reports Navajo Technical University is scheduled to celebrate the 94-year-old Pinto with an honorary degree of Doctor of Public Service at the university’s May 17 commencement.
The Lupton, Arizona-born Pinto has served in the New Mexico Senate since 1977.
Navajo Technical University president Elmer Guy says the Democratic lawmaker has been a strong advocate for the Navajo Nation and the university.
Pinto served in World War II as a Navajo Code Talker.
