Teresa Cole (she/her)

About Teresa's Community Action Project (CAP)

My project reimagines JRA’s James River Leadership Expedition, a program that has introduced high school students to river and watershed issues for over ten years. My project seeks to understand and break down the barriers that have limited participation by Black, Indigenous, and students from low-income and rural communities. These youth are often the most affected by challenges facing the James River, and this program empowers them to develop solutions that positively impact their communities. By addressing these obstacles, we aim to create a program that is inclusive, relevant, and meaningful for all participants.

About Teresa

When she’s not at work, Teresa is happiest outdoors, chasing adventure with her family and friends—hiking, biking, backpacking, bikepacking, camping, skiing, whitewater rafting, or kayaking. On days when she’s grounded indoors, she channels her energy into hands-on hobbies and functional arts. A fiber artist for over 20 years, she knits, spins, and dyes her own yarn, and lately she’s been exploring the magical mess of ceramics, learning to throw clay. Teresa believes there’s always something to be doing, and when she’s taking a well-earned break, you’ll find her curled up on the couch with a good book and a steaming cup of tea.

More About Me

What influential environmental book or author would you recommend other people read?
I would recommend Black Faces, White Spaces by Carolyn Finney. It’s a powerful exploration of race, identity, and access in environmental spaces, shedding light on how systemic barriers have shaped who feels welcome—or unwelcome—in nature. It challenges us to confront barriers in environmental spaces and inspires more inclusive, equitable practices.

What is one fun fact people should know about you?
I love water in all its forms - whether it be flowing through a river or falling frozen from the sky – all of my favorite activities take place on “white” water! 

What is your favorite memory of being in nature?
In June 2020, I was part of the first private rafting trip to launch from Lee’s Ferry on the Colorado River through the Grant Canyon after its closure due to COVID. Spending 17 days under the rim–camping and rafting with friends, totally off grid from the chaos of the world above–was life changing. I’ll spend every day of the rest of my life trying to go back.