Clark joins Smoke Signals staff

By Danielle Frost

Tribal member and Grand Ronde resident Jennifer Clark joined the staff of Smoke Signals on Monday, Nov. 26.

Clark will work in the newly created social media/digital journalist position, which includes expanding media into various platforms such as YouTube videos and podcasting to complement the current print and online product.

She currently produces podcasts for the nonprofit online ministry “Out of the Darkness” and writes a monthly e-newsletter.

“I’ve always been interested in journalism,” Clark said. “I like the idea of getting to go out, talking to people and learning more about my Tribe and our culture. I have a real interest in that.”

Clark, 31, has called Grand Ronde home for the past four years. She lives with husband, Wade, and two children: son Logan, 10, and daughter Arya, 5. Her mom is Tina Leno, and grandparents are Victor and Kristina Cureton.

“I’m looking forward to finding local stories that connect with people on a personal level,” Clark said.

She earned an associate degree in general studies from Chemeketa Community College. Previously, Clark worked as a teacher’s aide for the Tribal preschool and as an administrative assistant at Chachalu Museum & Cultural Center.

“We are looking forward to Jennifer helping Smoke Signals expand its media outreach to the membership via podcasting, videos and other offerings on myriad social media platforms,” Publications Coordinator Dean Rhodes said. “We are sure she will grow professionally as Smoke Signals grows journalistically over the years. Her interest in the Tribe will hopefully help us make more connections with the diverse and dispersed membership.”

In her free time, Clark said she enjoys hiking, spending time with family and photography.

She can be reached at 503-879-1461 or Jennifer.clark@grandronde.org.