The Traditional Blessing Ceremony recognizes incoming American Indian / Alaskan Native students entering any of the four health professions schools at the University of Arizona. The Office of Outreach and Multicultural Affairs, with support from Michael Stoklos and the Stoklos Native American Health Education Fund, invites students to receive an American Indian Traditional Blessing offered by a local Traditional Healer.

The Blessing Ceremony was created by Carlos Gonzales, member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and College of Medicine Alumni, and his family to bring harmony and tranquility to the spirits of our American Indian medical students as they begin their medical education at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. Through the years, Dr. Gonzales and Pedro Flores, Yoheme Traditional Healer, have presided over the Blessing and have extended their invitation to the rest of the Arizona Health Sciences community to join in.

Who Should Attend?

• American Indian students entering any of the four health professions colleges (Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Public Health)
• Friends and family of students being honored in this ceremony
• American Indian Tribal representatives
• Strong supporters of our honored American Indian health profession students
• Faculty, administration and staff from Arizona Health Sciences Colleges
• American Indian Alumni

How long is the Blessing Ceremony?

• The event may last 2.5 – 3 hours

How Often is the Traditional Blessing Ceremony Held?

• Only once, in the Fall semester
• Please check the Events Calendar for details

Requirements to Attend:

• None

Cost:

• Free

Registration:

• RSVP online by visiting the OMA Events Calendar (above).
• For additional information, please contact our office by phone 520-621-5531 / 800-841-5948 or email azhealth@email.arizona.edu.