Nicole graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Alabama in 2022. In the summer of 2021, she was a Swim Guide field intern for Cahaba Riverkeeper where she assisted the team with collecting E.coli, eDNA, microplastics, and general water quality samples. Having enjoyed her time as an intern, she returned to Cahaba Riverkeeper as an AmeriCorps VISTA through UAB in 2022. Throughout her academic career, Nicole has taken an interest in protecting our waterways and environmental health, especially within the subjects of public health and environmental justice. As a Birmingham native, the Cahaba River has always been within her arms reach, and working with Cahaba Riverkeeper has strengthened her connection with the river and everything it has to offer. She believes that water is one of the most important aspects of life and that it is extremely important to protect our waterways, not only for drinking but also for the aesthetic, recreational, and biological purposes our rivers, streams, and lakes provide. 

Now in her second year of AmeriCorps VISTA service as Cahaba Riverkeeper’s Programs Coordinator, Nicole assists Cahaba Riverkeeper staff with the organization and management of the Swim Guide program, coordinating events with local community organizations and non-profits to increase environmental stewardship, conducting GIS and research projects, and other outreach activities such as volunteer opportunities.