Jes
Thompson
Dr. Jes L. Thompson (MS and PhD University of Utah, BS Northern Michigan University) is the inaugural Assistant Vice President for Sustainability at Northern Michigan University and the Director of the Sustainability Hub for Innovation and the Environment (SHINE). She previously served as a full professor in the College of Business. She is also a trained facilitator and mediator and holds graduate certificates in Adaptive Management of Environmental Systems (University of Utah) and Sustainable Business Strategy (Harvard University). Her research is focused on organizational communication about complex ecological issues, such as climate change, resilience and adaptation. Last year, Dr. Thompson was honored as one of Crain’s 2024 Notable Leaders in Sustainability. She currently serves on the U.S. National Park System Advisory Board and is the chair of the Marquette Climate Adaptation Task Force.
Sessions with Jes
Leveling Up in the Outdoor Industry
1:15PM-2PM
Back by popular demand, Northern Michigan University students, faculty, and alumni will build on last year’s conversation, which spotlighted NMU’s outdoor-focused degree programs. This year, the focus shifts toward real-world application and next steps, including feedback from outdoor pros on what’s working and missing in leadership prep, creative routes to professional development outside of the classroom, and the potential for meaningful partnerships between outdoor education and Indigenous communities. Swap ideas, share experiences, and walk away with new inspiration (and maybe even a plan) to take your career to the next level.
Winding Trail
Sponsor