Tory Nau is a program manager and curriculum developer at the CIRES Center for Education, Engagement, and Evaluation. Nau works at the intersection of science, education, and community engagement — and she is passionate about helping people connect with environmental science and the outdoors. In her free time, you can find Nau trail running or camping with her husband, Erik, and dog, Avery. 

What do you work on at CIRES?

I work at the intersection of science, education, and community engagement, serving as a connector and storyteller who helps translate research into meaningful experiences. I partner with communities to co-create water exhibits, support K–12 curriculum projects, and help CIRES scientists share their work with the public.

What are you most passionate about professionally?

I’m deeply passionate about helping people connect with the outdoors and develop a lasting appreciation for the natural world. By making environmental science tangible, relatable, and meaningful, I hope to inspire the kind of care and stewardship that leads to real, positive change.

Tell us about your hobbies.

My favorite hobbies are trail running and camping with my husband and our dog. Whether we’re exploring new mountain trails on foot or traveling in our truck with a pop up tent, we love disconnecting, spending time together, and immersing ourselves in nature.

If you could only eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Chips, salsa, and guacamole (and ice cream for dessert)!

Tell us about your family.

My husband and I got married on top of a mountain! We ran to the top, me in a white athletic dress and veil, and my husband in a white collared shirt and tie, and we exchanged vows with our dog as our witness.