Volunteer and Rising Leader Awards

It's been a great year working with volunteers and young leaders to protect and restore the Colorado Plateau. We are thrilled to honor the following community members for their contributions in 2023.

Aaliyah "Ozzie" Cody: Garden Goddess Rising Leaders Award
As our seeds and stories leader-in-training, Ozzie is celebrated for her dedication to fostering a love of farming in other young leaders.

Al Kisner: Proud Plateau Protector Volunteer Award
Al is celebrated for his passionate love of some of the Colorado Plateau’s most spectacular landscapes, in particular, Johnson Lakes Canyon. 

Cynthia “CJ” Johnson: Most Enthusiastic New Volunteer Award
CJ is celebrated for her willingness to jump right into the Trust’s work, and for spreading good cheer among fellow volunteers.

Denise Hudson: Native Plants Superhero Volunteer Award
Denise is celebrated for her bravery and unwavering commitment to the grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees that are deeply rooted in the Colorado Plateau, but especially those of Kane Ranch.

Elena Klopfenstein: Adventure Advocate Rising Leader Award
Elena is celebrated for her inclusive and engaging dynamic and her excitement about life on the river in the Grand Canyon during RIISE.

Jakob Corley: True River Runner Rising Leaders Award
Jakob is celebrated for his positive attitude, willingness to try new things, and his love for poetry and art during the RIISE Colorado River trip.

Jane Schaefer: Above and Beyond Membership Award
Jane is celebrated for creatively channeling her athletic prowess and generosity by running the TransRockies charity run on behalf of the Trust. 

Lisa Nerio: Volunteer of the Year Award
Lisa is celebrated for her kindness and positivity, superhuman strength, and for having a heart of gold.

Nizhoni Tallas: Radiant Rising Leader Award
Nizhoni is celebrated for her commitment to protecting the Colorado Plateau, groundwater data wizardry as an intern, and environmental justice activism at LeaderShift.