Farewell and Thank You, Rachel

Over five years, I’ve had the privilege of growing our Outreach and Education programs into what they are today. When I began, my position was part time, and as I leave we are in the process of evolving our programs once again to bring on an educator. I know that the organization will continue to do great things, and I hope what I have been able to contribute will provide a strong foundation for that growth.

From the start, STEAM was one of my focuses, because I believe the integration of the arts into science, technology, engineering, and math to be incredibly important. Cross disciplinary collaborations drive innovation, get people out of their silos, and help us look at both challenges and opportunities in a new light. As an artist myself, I was determined from my first day to rally more artists to the river’s cause. Imagine my excitement when Boxford resident Anne Loyer approached me with an opportunity to combine music, dance, installation, and restoration science. 

The Ocean of Rivers event series shared the plight of the herring with an entirely new audience (and managed to adapt through COVID restrictions, twice!). This approach is continuing this fall through a partnership with Northeastern University and the Town of Ipswich. Cognitive Laboratory of Environment and Arts Research (CLEAR) projects use installations to research the impact public art can have on public behavior and opinions around environmental issues. Check out the installation at Ipswich Illuminations this fall!

And if you haven’t already seen it, come by Riverbend to see the fabulous mural Raw Art Works from Lynn painted at our headquarters. Though delayed by the pandemic, the project finally happened. And better yet, the artists were able to get out on the river—at no cost.

IRWA’s no-cost education program is something that I continue to be immensely proud of. Year round (and particularly in the spring and summer) local youth and school groups have access to environmental education at their location, or at Riverbend. Nothing will amp up your energy to advocate for the river like seeing a group of kids get out paddling on it for the first time EVER. This summer, Salem Rec will be making their first visit to Riverbend, thanks to a grant from the Essex National Heritage Commission (ENHC). Transportation is often the biggest barrier to accessing the river, and I hope IRWA continues to address that just as we address barriers to stream flow. 

I’ve also been lucky enough to use my own artistic skills in my role at IRWA. I’ve done a lot of design and illustration work for the River over the years. It will always make me smile when I see a Lawn by Lawn sign posted in someone’s yard (take the pledge and get a sign today!).

As I move on to new endeavors, I know I’m leaving the future of the river in good hands. The next generation of advocates have wowed me over the years. I’ve been able to work with so many amazing interns, from the Kerry Mackin Summer Educators to the incredible students of the Climate Cafes. Special shout-outs to those who have worked with me one-on-one: Meghan Sullivan, Grace Evans, Tessa Devoe, Annabelle Platt, Jacob Garland, Sadie Woodward, Margot Kelly, Jaedin Guldenstern, and Katie Bernard. And there have been so many more (too many to name!).

Though I now live on the Merrimack River, I grew up on the Ipswich River, right in Middleton, and it will always be special to me. I remain a member of the Middleton Stream Team, and you’re likely to see me out leading walks with Pike Messenger, or helping Sandy Rubchinuk at the Middleton Earth Day Festival. You can follow me on instagram at @rachel_on_the_river to see what I’m up to (probably walking in the woods). The best thing about working for IRWA has been all of you, our members and volunteers, so please keep in touch!

6 thoughts on “Farewell and Thank You, Rachel”

  1. Thank you, Rachel, for all you do, and all you have accomplished. It has been a pleasure working with you.

  2. I enjoyed getting to know more about stretches of the River and their ecosystems on several hikes you led. Wishing you the best in whatever you’ll be applying your talents and enthusiasm to in the future!

  3. Hi Rachel,
    Thank you for all you have done for IRWA including your amazing creative contributions to the Paddle-a-thon over the years. I have enjoyed working with you and wish you all the best in your future adventures!

  4. Rachel you have been an amazing advocate for the Ipswich River and for water conservation in general. Wishing you all the best in your endeavors. I know I will see you around Middleton and hopefully you will join us on our Friday paddles.

  5. Darlene Fleischman

    Congratulations Rachel. I knew you when you were little. All the best in your next chapter!
    Darlene Fleischman

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