Matthew Jessee, M.Ed

Matthew studied Philosophy and Biology at Western Carolina University, where he found a strong interest in mountain ecology and stream hydrology.  He used what he learned to provide educational whitewater tours for a summer camp, discovering a passion for education and river systems. 

Matthew went on to join his family in Texas and do post-graduate work at Texas State University in Environmental Education, earning a Masters of Education with a focus on the sciences.  Matthew was an educator of the sciences for the past 9 years, teaching Biology, Environmental Science, Hydrology, Hydraulics, and Chemistry.  He built the first 16’ river flume to ever be used in a high school classroom.  This river simulator was used to demonstrate how man-made alterations can effect erosion and riparian zones. 

Through his work as an educator he has been dedicated to teaching an understanding of the environment and ecosystems.  He has done environmental education studies across the country;  written curriculum for the study of hydrology; designed biological studies for students on local watersheds; organized restoration of sea turtle nesting zones in Tobago; started environmental campaigns to bring together students and their community, including the design and construction of a community garden and the creation of the ‘Green Your School Campaign’ with students at Chapel Hill High School.

The opportunity to  combine his experiences and passions with his Texas roots was too good for him to pass up.