Owen Oliver

Quinault (Chinook) / Isleta Pueblo 

Age: 21

Hometown: Seattle, WA

 

Owen Oliver grew up on the Salish Sea where he was able to learn traditions inter-tribally through the annual Canoe Journey. Once at the University of Washington, he has been focusing on Indigenous education through community engagement and empowerment. He understands the importance of higher education and the skill sets that Native students can bring to every academic setting, ensuring new ways that success is achieved and determined. He’s been able to achieve a few of these goals through the American Indian Studies program and the undergraduate Native organization First Nations where he works as the Outreach chair. As a Champion for Change, Owen will be able to look outside the Coast Salish region and develop relationships that will lead to a better understanding of visibility, community work, and successes of Native students across North America.