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February 14, 2024
Miami Waterkeeper (MWK) is thrilled to introduce Dr. Jessica Bolson as the new Director of Climate and Freshwater Programs. Jessica will focus on ensuring that climate and fresh water management decisions are based on the best available science and will work to develop resilience strategies aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change in vulnerable South Florida, while also supporting ecosystem and clean water protections. "Jessica's extensive expertise will help to guide Miami Waterkeeper's positions and actions on these critical and timely issues," said Rachel Silverstein, Executive Director and Waterkeeper.
Jessica is completing a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Wharton Risk Management and Decision Processes Center, where she has been coordinating the $5 million National Science Foundation (NSF) South Florida Water Sustainability and Climate project and leading the project's behavioral research team. She is also a member of an interdisciplinary team of scientists who were recently awarded $12 million by NSF to develop an Urban Water Innovations Network.
Jessica also has extensive secondary science education experience, and she will be instrumental in launching our new Junior Waterkeepers program, which aims to educate and engage youth in becoming future environmental leaders. "My passion for the environment and education are motivated by my love of the outdoors and my dedication to ensuring a sustainable future for my children," says Bolson. She looks forward to joining the non-profit sector and promoting environmental protection in a new capacity.
Jessica received a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Policy from University of Miami in 2010. Her dissertation focused on understanding the effects of climate change on freshwater resources and their management in South Florida. In 2008, Jessica worked as a Gubernatorial Fellow in the Florida Department of Environmental Protection where she crafted a statewide policy for climate change and water resource management. Jessica has also completed an M.A. at Columbia University in Climate and Society, an M.Ed. at NYU in Biology Education, and a B.A. in Environmental Science at Barnard College. Prior to her graduate studies, Jessica taught high school biology in NYC.
MWK has become a leading advocate and a powerful voice for sustaining Miami's clean water economy. We look forward to continuing this important work together with the community of South Florida to ensure swimmable, drinkable, fishable water for all.
Help us welcome Jessica to the team!
