Using Her Platform for the Planet

Growing up just north of La Jolla in Carlsbad, California, Elise Nishimura developed an appreciation for the environment long before she arrived at UC San Diego.

Now a junior Environmental Systems major in Marshall College and member of the UC San Diego softball team, Nishimura has discovered a unique way to unite her academic interests with her athletic career. Through EcoAthletes, a nonprofit that empowers athletes to become advocates for climate change, she is using her voice to encourage teammates and others to make meaningful changes, one conversation at a time.

Growing Up with a Purpose

Long before she arrived at UC San Diego, Nishimura's interest in environmental science was already taking shape. Her father works for an environmental science company in San Diego, and as a child, she eagerly looked forward to the days she could accompany him to work.

"My dad used to take me in for Take Your Kid to Work Day," Nishimura said. "It was my favorite part of the year."

Those experiences sparked an early curiosity for science. While she enjoyed STEM subjects throughout school, it was the hands-on nature of environmental science that stood out most. Initially, she chose to major in business after beginning her collegiate career at UC Riverside, believing it was the more practical path. But something never felt quite right.

"I knew I didn't want to do business," Nishimura said. "I'd never really been interested in it."

Everything changed when her former head coach accepted the head coaching position at UC San Diego. After entering the transfer portal, Nishimura visited La Jolla and quickly realized she had found the place she had always envisioned. Growing up just 20 minutes north in Carlsbad, Nishimura had long dreamed of attending UC San Diego.

"I loved every single part of it," Nishimura said. "UC San Diego has always been known for its STEM programs and all the opportunities it gives students."

The transfer also gave her the opportunity to pursue the major she truly wanted. With encouragement from academic advisors, Nishimura switched to Environmental Systems, a decision she now describes as one of the best she's ever made.

Discovering a Team Beyond Softball

Nishimura's passion for environmental science eventually led her to EcoAthletes, a nonprofit organization that empowers athletes to become leaders in climate action. Founded on the belief that athletes have influential voices both on and off the field, EcoAthletes connects collegiate, professional, Olympic, and Paralympic athletes with scientists and climate experts to help them communicate environmental issues in meaningful ways.

Among its initiatives is the EcoAthletes Collegiate Cup, which encourages scholar-athletes to convert everyday physical activity into environmental action by supporting conservation efforts around the world.

When Nishimura first learned about the organization through former teammate Jaden Hill, she immediately knew she wanted to be involved.

"I spent the whole day looking through their website," she said. "I thought it was the coolest thing."

Since joining during her sophomore year, Nishimura has participated in weekly educational sessions featuring scientists, environmental professionals, and fellow athletes from around the world. The experience has expanded not only her knowledge of climate science, but also her confidence in discussing it with others.

"They educate athletes on how to educate other people," Nishimura said. "You don't have to come in knowing everything."

That message resonated. As an athlete, she already understood the value of discipline, perseverance, and leading by example, and EcoAthletes simply gave her a new way to apply those qualities.