Smoke Signals welcomes Tribal graduate into internship

Publications intern Alexander Bliven joined the Smoke Signals newsroom Monday, May 11, in a temporary position made possible by the Tribe’s 477 Employment and Training Program.
“I’m extremely grateful to the Tribe for providing me with this opportunity,” Bliven said. “I enjoy writing that is able to inform others, so being in a position where I can do that is a dream come true.”

Bliven graduated from Western Oregon University in 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts in English Studies. He is excited to apply what he’s learned in the classroom into a real-world setting.

A Tribal member, Bliven is interested in writing, storytelling and learning new things. Through his internship, he hopes to gain even more experience with writing, editing and journalism. He is also excited at the chance to contribute stories meaningful to the Tribal community.

Bliven also views this position as a way for him to thank the Tribe for providing funding for his education.

“The Tribe has supported me all throughout my life and this is my way of giving back,” he said.

Bliven has called the Willamette Valley his home his entire life and currently resides in Amity with his parents and beloved cat. In his spare time, he enjoys learning random trivia, studying astronomy and playing video games.

Bliven can be reached at Alexander.Bliven@grandronde.org.