The Native American Institute is excited to welcome Dr. Esther Belin to campus. Belin is a citizen of the Navajo Nation, the inaugural poet laureate of Durango, Colorado (2024–2026), and a 2025 Academy of American Poets laureate fellow. She calls the region just east of Dibé Ntsaa, the northern boundary mountain of Dinétah, her home. She has two collections of poetry, From the Belly of My Beauty and Of Cartography, and is a co-editor of The Diné Reader: An Anthology of Navajo Literature, which received the American Book Award. She is the Leslie Endowed Chair in North American Indian and Indigenous Literary Studies at Michigan State University.

“Having Professor Belin on campus this semester has already been incredibly impactful. With so few Native faculty at MSU, her presence means a great deal to our community," said Dr. Kristin Arola, director of the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program. “She’s a consistent and inspiring presence at both campus and community events—showing up for students, engaging with colleagues, and contributing her energy and insight in ways that matter deeply.

“As an accomplished poet, Professor Belin brings her creative voice into everything she does; her artistry and sense of purpose are inseparable. We’re thrilled to have her as part of the Spartan community.”

Dr. Kevin Leonard, director of NAI, agreed. "With the addition of Dr. Belin, MSU gains not only a gifted writer, storyteller, and poet, but also a dedicated faculty member whose deep commitment to Indigenous communities and student success—both undergraduate and graduate—will enrich our academic and cultural landscape," he said.