A member of Stow Collaboration for Change (SC4C), Tessa (she/her) is a compassionate advocate dedicated to building inclusive, connected communities. Having made the choice to become a vegetarian at just four years old, her deep care for all living beings has long been a guiding force in how she engages with the world.
Tessa’s background in Global Communication, TESOL, and International Relations, alongside her experience living abroad, opened her world to lifelong friendships across the globe. Experiencing diverse cultures firsthand sparked a continuous journey of learning the complex ways race, religion, and culture intersect to shape our lives and human experiences. She keeps that momentum going by reading at least 100 books a year, diving headfirst into titles focused on social justice and human connection.
Driven by a belief in the power of local action, Tessa is a dedicated advocate for social justice, LGBTQ+ rights, accessibility, and positive systemic change. She joined SC4C because she believes meaningful progress happens when we show up, stay present, and actively work alongside our neighbors to foster understanding.
When she isn’t reading or getting involved locally, you’ll most certainly find Tessa outside. She’s usually training for her next race, exploring a new trail, or scouting out the best vegetarian and gluten-free spots in Northeast Ohio. A firm believer that parks belong to everybody, she is passionate about ensuring outdoor spaces remain welcoming and accessible for all.