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From Art to Advocacy:
Christina Truwit's Journey to Coastal Climate Solutions

By Amirali Momeni

Christina Truwit, a second-year master's student in Environmental Science and management in the Policy track, as well as a coastal resiliency certificate at the University of Rhode Island, is deeply passionate about the intersection of policy and human behavior.

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Christina Truwit, a second-year master's student in Environmental Science and management in the Policy track, as well as a coastal resiliency certificate at the University of Rhode Island, is deeply passionate about the intersection of policy and human behavior, particularly in the context of climate change and coastal communities. Her academic pursuits, fueled by a diverse background and a strong sense of social responsibility, have led her to focus on the critical issue of managed retreat, the relocation of communities away from vulnerable coastal areas, in the face of rising sea levels.

Christina's current research focuses on the communication gaps that often exist between policymakers and residents in coastal communities grappling with the impacts of climate change. She is particularly interested in the challenges associated with managed retreat, a strategy that involves relocating communities away from vulnerable coastal areas.

"As someone with a background in understanding the rationale for retreat, I support it and I think that's our best long-term solution," Christina explains. "But as someone who also has a social background in architecture and understands how and why people live in certain places, it is incredibly understandable why people and communities are not ready to retreat."

Christina's journey to her current field of study is marked by a rich tapestry of experiences. She holds a bachelor's degree in fine arts and a master's degree in architecture, both from the Rhode Island School of Design. Her architectural training instilled in her a keen understanding of the built environment and its profound impact on human lives.

After completing her undergraduate studies, Christina worked at a health innovation company, where she contributed to a "housing is health" project. This experience exposed her to the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, particularly those experiencing homelessness. It highlighted the vital role that stable housing plays in individual and community well-being, a theme that would continue to resonate throughout her career.

During her time at the

Rhode Island School of Design,

Christina co-founded a

research collective dedicated

to exploring architectural

precedents that challenge

the dominant Western

narrative. This collective

curated an online archive and

published a book highlighting

alternative approaches to social and climate justice within the field of architecture. Through this work, Christina deepened her understanding of the cultural, social, and economic dimensions of place and space.

“I started research on coastal retreat and its impact on land when I was doing my master's thesis at RISD. When I realized I didn't have enough scientific and political connections to do what I want, I came to the program at URI  to continue this research.”

Christina's research aims to bridge this gap by exploring how communication strategies can be improved to foster greater understanding and collaboration between policymakers and residents. She believes that effective communication is crucial for building support for climate adaptation strategies and ensuring that the needs and concerns of affected communities are taken into account.
Christina's passion for her work is deeply rooted in her personal experiences and values. Growing up, she lived in several different states, including Colorado, Hawaii, Minnesota, and Rhode Island. This exposure to diverse communities and landscapes instilled in her a profound appreciation for the connection between people and place.

"I could tell that it felt different in Rhode Island, than in other states we lived, because of my ancestral connection to the land," Christina reflects. "I felt more at home." This sense of connection to place has fueled Christina's desire to help communities navigate the challenges posed by climate change. She is committed to finding solutions that respect the cultural, social, and economic ties that bind people to their homes and communities.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Christina is an avid artist and outdoor enthusiast. She enjoys knitting, crocheting, painting, building furniture, gardening, cooking, baking, reading, hiking, traveling, and biking. These activities provide her with a creative outlet and a way to connect with the natural world.

As she looks to the future, Christina is uncertain about her specific career goals. However, she is determined to make a positive impact on the world. "I want to be on the frontlines caring for people and their homes, as we dive into a climate where people and their homes need to be cared for respectfully," she says.

Whether she ultimately pursues a career in academia, policy, or community organizing, Christina's dedication to understanding and addressing the human dimensions of climate change will undoubtedly shape her path forward.

Her work is a testament to the

power of interdisciplinary

thinking and the importance

of bridging the gap between

knowledge and action in

the face of complex

environmental challenges.

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