Northern Arizona University - A Community of DISTINCTION

These members of our community make life better through visionary approaches to tackling problems in areas as diverse as medicine, sustainability, and journalism.

Whether championing a specific point of view or defending a certain group of people, these individuals teach others how to stand up for their beliefs.

These individuals lead and shape future generations of difference-makers in the classroom, on the field, and beyond the university.

These individuals are honored for their sustained excellence in a variety of roles, including teachers, athletes, service members, and researchers.

Encompassing researchers, artists, and more, these individuals break new ground and produce outcomes that make the world a better place.

Dedicated to Success

Javier Villarreal

2010 BS in Elementary Education

Hard work, dedication, and self-belief are behind the success of NAU's champion shot put thrower Javier Villarreal. Fresh from winning the Big Sky Conference title and finishing the season in the nation's top 15 throwers, Villarreal is about to graduate with a degree in elementary education and stands poised to represent Mexico in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London.