Matt has over twenty years of experience in multi-disciplinary policy, planning, and management, with focus on environment and natural resources. He coordinates state of Michigan activities under the bi-national Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement and federal Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.  Matt also advances a number of special projects both internal and external to state government, most notably by serving as regional coordinator for the Great Lakes Islands Alliance, a voluntary network of leaders from year-round island communities. In nearly all his roles, he finds himself serving the role of connector or coordinator, which requires navigating the complex interactions between multiple issues, programs, and siloed organizations. Matt holds a Bachelor of Science (biology) degree from Bucknell University and a Master of Environmental Management (resource ecology) from Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment.