About
Kiana is Diné and Acoma Pueblo. She is Tótsohnii (Big Water Clan), born for the Naashashí (Bear People Clan). Her maternal grandpa is of the Táchíi’nii (Red Running into the Water Clan), and her paternal grandpa is Atsá (Eagle Clan). She officially joined the center in July 2025 and currently serves as a Research Program Assistant in Shiprock, NM, working with the Infectious Disease Prevention team. In this role, she supports research studies through participant recruitment and consent, sample and data collection, and sample processing. Some of the studies she supports include VaxUp and Adult Pneumonia.
Prior to joining the center, Kiana worked at Northern Navajo Medical Center for four years, where she gained extensive experience in health data reporting, public health coordination, and patient engagement. Her work included assisting with patient communication, data management, and cross-team collaboration. It was in this capacity that Kiana developed a passion for uplifting Indigenous communities, particularly through research that centers Indigenous voices and addresses health disparities. As a Diné and Pueblo woman, she values contributing to work that directly benefits her people and future generations.
Kiana is currently pursuing an Associate of Science degree in Pre-Health Sciences at San Juan College with plans to continue into a Radiologic Technology program and later earn a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. Outside of work, Kiana enjoys a variety of activities—from attending music festivals and concerts to making desserts like chocolate-covered strawberries. She also loves spending time with family and friends, trying new food spots, and traveling to new places whenever she can.