Riley Speas
Riley Speas
Spatial Analyst, KUB
Riley graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Geography program in Spring 2025. She started as a firmly dedicated human geographer, where she discovered her love for GIS technology and decided to pursue independent research projects. Riley adored integrating spatial technology to address critical humanitarian issues, and discovered that she could harness her love for research, writing, and GIS technology to educate communities about ongoing crises. Riley also received the Undergraduate Researcher of the Year award and Michelle D Pfeiffer Outstanding Senior Award her senior year. After four years in UT Geography, Riley can firmly say that the program shaped who she is as a researcher and young professional. Riley is especially thankful to her mentors Solange Muñoz, Michael Camponovo, Jake Watkins, and Tracey Norrell. Now, Riley is so excited to represent UT Geography and further develop as a spatial analyst within the Water Systems Engineering team at the Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB).