Dr. Tanisha Begay
SHIPROCK – The Navajo Division for Children and Family Services (NDCFS) congratulates the grand marshals of the 113th Northern Navajo Fair parade. Grand marshals are Dr, Tanisha Begay, Shiyazh Pete, and Justin Pioche.
Begay is the owner and chiropractor of Hozho Wellness and Chiropractic in Shiprock, N.M. She is a 2017 graduate of Shiprock High School and former state champion basketball player. Begay earned her master of science and doctorate degrees from Parker University.
Pete was the first Navajo Nation member to sign with an NFL team and is currently a free agent. A locker room speech he made while playing for the Dallas Cowboys went viral in August. Pete is a Chief Manuelito scholar and earned a bachelor’s degree in communications. He played college football for New Mexico State and University of Kentucky.
Pioche was a 2023 James Beard Finalist for Best Chef in the Southwest and won Food Network’s Chopped championship earlier this year. He is a 2014 graduate of Arizona Culinary Institute and owns Pioche Food Group with his family.
“The three grand marshals have earned the well-deserved honor of being celebrated for their outstanding accomplishments,” Thomas Cody, NDCFS Executive Director, said. “They prove that our Navajo people have the capabilities to achieve their dreams, through education, talent, and most importantly, dedication and hard work. They are an inspiration to each of us.”
J. Kaibah Begay, Executive Director Thomas Cody, and Gervana Begay
Cody attended an event recognizing the grand marshals on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
The parade will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, in Shiprock, N.M., with the theme, “Rooted in Tradition, We Rise Together in K’é.”
The NDCFS departments and programs will be participating in the Northern Navajo Fair’s Elder Fest and Youth Day activities on Thursday, October 1, 2026, to provide community outreach and promote healthy families.