Shelby Cline
Originally from Georgia, Shelby Cline (they/them) now lives and works in Colorado, on Arapaho, Ute, and Cheyenne lands.
Shelby originally joined River Network in 2023 as the Drinking Water Program and later returned to the organization in 2026 as the River Programs Senior Associate. Shelby supports the Healthy Rivers and Drinking Water teams on topics related to water infrastructure, conservation, affordability, capacity building, and more. They are a member of River Network’s Policy Team, working to advance the network’s advocacy initiatives.
Shelby and their partner at Denver Botanic Gardens.
Shelby has a keen interest in facilitating engaging meetings for the network and building out River Network’s growing catalog of online learning series. Shelby attended Davidson College in North Carolina and received a B.A. in Environmental Studies. Since then, Shelby began their M.A. in Learning Design & Technology with the University of Colorado – Denver. Previous to working at River Network, they collaborated with state and local nonprofit organizations to lead grassroots organizing efforts for safe drinking water, farmworker’s rights, and food system sustainability. Outside of work, Shelby can be found wandering waterside trails, discovering new restaurants to try, and spending time with loved ones.
Which River Network value most speaks to you?
The value of inclusion really resonates with me. Everyone deserves a seat at the table, so we need to value different perspectives and opinions, promote equity and justice, and create an intentional space for people to be a part of. It’s important to me to work for an organization that recognizes this need for inclusion both internally and externally. Internally it creates a stronger, more resilient staff that feels accepted and heard. Externally it allows for better partnerships based on mutual respect. We can do so much more when we’re able to work together.
What called you to work in water?
As a kid I was obsessed with all things water. I wanted to be a water bender, or a mermaid, or an Olympic swimmer. Although none of those dreams came true, I’ve stayed in close connection with the water my whole life. Whether it was exploring the creek behind my house when I was little, or rowing down the river in a regatta, I keep finding myself making core memories in these outdoor, aquatic spaces. I feel lucky to be able to work to help conserve these places for future generations, so that other people can experience the same joy I have spending time around water.
If you didn’t work in water or conservation, what would you be doing?
I would probably be in tech. Specifically, I would want to build computers or be a web designer. It’s a lot of fun creating something from scratch and seeing it turn on or work the way you wanted it to. But it could still be a hobby!
How do you recharge outside of work?
I enjoy taking time to be outside and enjoy nature. My trusty companion – a yellow lab named Apple – and a pair of headphones can usually be found with me.
Shelby and Apple.
