Representing Her Roots on Illinois Homecoming Court
After a busy Homecoming weekend at the University of Illinois, senior Yanaba Schroeder is reflecting on what it meant to represent both her university and her Navajo roots on the 2025 Homecoming Court.
Schroeder, who studies Human Development and Family Studies in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, was one of 20 students selected for the honor. For her, it was less about personal recognition and more about representing where she comes from.
Schroeder grew up in Kayenta, Arizona, on the Navajo Reservation. At Illinois, she has stayed connected to her Indigenous roots through the Native American House.
“My involvement at the Native American House has provided me with a strong sense of belonging and support during my college journey,” Schroeder said.
She has served two years as a Native American House Ambassador and is an active member of the Student Trustee Cultural Liaison Board. Beyond campus, Schroeder leads Project Green, an initiative revitalizing land stewardship and traditional farming to address the diabetes epidemic on the Navajo Nation. She also volunteers with Adopt a Native Elder and the DigDeep Foundation.
A proud first-generation student, Schroeder is honored to represent her culture and open doors for future generations. After graduation, she plans to become a certified Child Life Specialist, supporting children and families through some of their most difficult moments. Eventually, she hopes to return to school to pursue her dream of becoming a pediatric surgeon.
“My heart is set on eventually working back home on the Navajo Reservation, not only as a Native doctor but also as someone who can advocate for healthcare equality and representation,” she said.
“For me, this path is more than just a career. It is about giving back to the community that raised me, creating access to care where it is most needed, and ensuring that all communities, especially Indigenous ones, see themselves represented in the medical field.”
Schroeder credits the College of ACES with feeling like a true family.
“During my time here, I have felt supported, cared for, and genuinely seen in ways that shaped both my personal and professional growth. From faculty who challenged me to think critically, to peers who constantly encouraged me, I’ve been surrounded by a community that truly cares about my success. Opportunities like working hands-on with children at the Child Development Laboratory and even creating stickers for my HDFS major have allowed me to step out, apply what I’ve learned in the classroom, and connect my academics with my personal interests. These experiences have made my time at Illinois meaningful and aligned with my career goals. Because of ACES, I feel confident, prepared, and excited for what’s ahead.”
When she learned she had been selected to Homecoming Court, Schroeder said she was overwhelmed with gratitude.
“I was genuinely shocked when I found out. To be chosen as one of just 20 was a huge surprise, but also deeply humbling. It affirmed that I was meant to be here and that the hard work I’ve put in, both inside and outside the classroom, has been recognized. It also made me reflect on the many people — friends, mentors, and professors, who have supported me throughout this journey,” Schroeder said.
“I am especially proud to represent my hometown of Kayenta, Arizona, and the Navajo Nation. Carrying forward the voices, values, and traditions that raised me means the world to me.”