Hayley Stuart

I first learned to paddle when I was sixteen years old at New River Academy (another paddling high school that merged with WCA in 2012). Contrasting with my suburban New York upbringing, it is safe to say that my life was changed forever and for the better.

Rivers, fulfillment, and adventure became integral to my well-being and inspired me to pursue a Bachelor’s in Environmental Science, Spanish, and Anthropology at the University of Denver to instill an even greater appreciation for our water resources. Combined with my love for rivers and kayaking, my studies led me to work with various communities, tribes, and organizations throughout Chile and Bolivia in order to study and document the impacts of mega-hydro development over time. After graduating in 2016, I continued in this field of work while exploring documentary film and public speaking. I also began teaching Spanish classes to students at the Alzar School. I’m excited to have the opportunity to join World Class and revisit the environment that made such a life-changing impression on me at that age.