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. As Cahaba Riverkeeper’s Programs Coordinator, her responsibilities include organizing and managing the Swim Guide program, GIS and data management, and other outreach activities such as volunteer opportunities. During her free time, she enjoys listening to music, playing guitar, and chilling with her two cats, Chibi and Miso.