Background & Upbringing
Raised on the Navajo Nation reservation in Arizona, Tiana grew up in a tight-knit extended family that preserved indigenous traditions and emphasized communal care.
Education
After attending a tribal community college, Tiana transferred to a liberal arts school in New England, majoring in Cultural Anthropology.
Professional Background
Tiana began her career as a cultural liaison, helping bridge communications between tribal councils and state governments. She later shifted to writing full-time, focusing on indigenous identity, love, and resilience.
Places Lived
She spent her childhood in Arizona, moved to Vermont for college, and did field research in New Mexico. Currently, she divides her time between a small southwestern town and Portland, Oregon.
Influences
Influenced by indigenous oral storytelling, Louise Erdrich, N. Scott Momaday, and the activism of Wilma Mankiller. Musically, she loves powwow drum groups and singer-songwriters like Buffy Sainte-Marie. Tiana’s perspective on romance and sophistication blends respect for tradition with a modern, exploratory lens.
