The Rivers Studies and Leadership Certificate (RSLC) is a rigorous program that combines cross-disciplinary coursework with practical, real-world experience in river science, policy, conservation, education, and recreation. Offered by the River Management Society (RMS) – a national non-profit organization dedicated to empowering river professionals – the certificate is granted to students who complete river-focused coursework and a river-related project in collaboration with RMS. James Vonesh, Ph.D., professor of environmental studies in the VCU School of Life Sciences and Sustainability, is the RSLC advisor at VCU who works closely with the students as they navigate the program.

VCU is one of 14 colleges that participate in the RSLC program. Of the 16 students who completed their certification this year, five were from VCU. Those students are (photos below, from left to right):

Judah Carr (B.S. Environmental Studies) will pursue a Master’s in Business Analytics at George Mason University.

Quinten Sierra (B.S Environmental Studies) continues his studies in Ireland this fall, attending Trinity College Dublin working toward a Master's in Environmental Science.

Briana Allman (M.ENVS, B.S. Environmental Studies) currently works at the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and is seeking a position as a GIS Analyst.

Kaylynn Breland (B.S. Environmental Studies) is looking forward to a future in environmental education and hopes to inspire students by creating connections to ecology through outdoor experiences.

Ethan Burroughs (B.S. Environmental Studies) is looking for his next internship or job opportunity.

"Being part of the River Studies and Leadership Program was an incredible experience. I loved working closely with river professionals, gaining hands-on insight into watershed management and conservation,” says Allman. “Presenting my research at the RMS Symposium was a highlight, allowing me to share my work with experts and engage in meaningful discussions. This program deepened my passion for sustainable river stewardship, and I’m grateful for the connections and knowledge I gained along the way."

Graduates of the RSLC program go on to build careers in water quality, climate resilience, and environmental education.