Rebecca Newton has a knack for supporting and encouraging members—new and experienced alike—to really make a difference.
As programs chair for the Middle Tennessee Group, Rebecca has been building monthly programs that help Tennesseans understand what's happening to our environment and what we can do about it. She's also an outings leader who's been getting people out on trails across the region, from Savage Falls to the secluded corners of Warner Park.
But here's what makes Rebecca's contribution special—and why Sarah Wierszalowski, our Middle Tennessee Adventure Seekers leader, wanted to make sure we recognized her this month:
"Rebecca is so deserving of any volunteer award. I find her so easy to work with and always enthusiastic. She is creative and thoughtful in her approach when planning a program. If I ever need her support she always shows up and makes working together fun. Rebecca you do a lot and I'm so happy you're being recognized! Keep up the good work."
That's the mark of someone who makes organizing easier, not harder. When Rebecca shows up, things get done—and her peers enjoy the process.
Rebecca brings real skills to this work. As a writer, editor, and communications consultant, she knows how to connect with people. She's been active with MTG since 2022 and joined the executive committee in February 2023. But what's most impressive is how she's taken on things she'd never done before. When the group needed hike leaders, Rebecca took the outings leader class at the 2024 Fall Retreat and led her first hike in early 2025. Since then she’s been to Savage Falls, Warner Park's Hill property, Belle Forest Cave & Arboretum, Fiery Gizzard, and Couchville Cedar Glade.
Rebecca fell in love with Tennessee when she attended the University of the South in Sewanee and first explored the Cumberland Plateau. She raised both her daughters in the Nashville area. "What I've loved about volunteering with Sierra has been all the learning involved, and the opportunities I've had to experience and share the natural wonder of our region," she said.
Her favorite Tennessee trail? Virgin Falls State Natural Area. "It's a tough hike, with gorgeous waterfalls and the Caney Fork—that's the next one I want to load in Campfire."
Sarah's appreciation for Rebecca shows us something important: our volunteers often have the clearest view of who's making a real difference. Who in your Sierra Club circle deserves recognition? Email your nominations to pat.cupples@sierraclub.org and tell us why your fellow volunteer should be our next Volunteer of the Month.