As the climbing community grows, a new wave of advocates is shaping the future of the sport. Such climbers bring invaluable perspectives to climbing, approaching the sport with enthusiasm, creativity, and modern perspectives on nature and community.
Jacqueline Frist perfectly embodies this spirit. Introduced to climbing as a youth competitor in Nashville, Jacqueline has evolved from a “comp kid” into a voice for local stewardship and leadership. Today, she is a graduate student at Vanderbilt University pursuing her Master’s in Computer Science while also serving as the Vice President of Vanderbilt’s climbing club.
For Jacqueline, investing her time in the next generation of climbers is a natural choice because, to her, climbing is really about community:
“Climbing has given me a great community. I’ve made some incredible friends through this sport and the culture is truly unbeatable, both in the gym and at the crag. Even strangers that you meet on a random climbing trip or at a trail day are always the kindest and most welcoming.”
That sense of connection takes on a greater meaning when rooted in real-world stewardship. For Jacqueline, that meaning connects directly back to the work of the SCC:
“Realizing all of the work that the SCC has done, and especially putting in some of that work myself on trail days, I gained a much better appreciation for these outdoor areas that we all use. Sometimes it’s easy to take for granted the access we get (often for free) and the hardware that’s already on the walls for everyone to use. It’s made me a lot more aware of this impact and a lot more appreciative of these special places.”
Jacqueline is an SCC Local Legend because of this exact perspective. She couples her experience and leadership with an eagerness to show up, give back, and remain an advocate for the outdoors. Beyond her example as a leader in the community, Jacqueline has some serious climbing ambitions. When asked about her most memorable day out, she points to some classics:
“Maiden Voyage, a multi-pitch climb in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Would love to send Scenic Cruise there next.”