Kristel Sheesley

As program manager at UMD EFC, Kristel conducts research, program and policy analysis, and financial assessments to advise clients on environmental finance challenges.  Current and recent projects have focused on water infrastructure funding and finance, forestry and urban tree policy, and sustainable manufacturing practices at small businesses. Prior to joining UMD EFC, Kristel was project director at the New England EFC in Maine, where she managed a technical assistance program focused on local and regional sustainability planning.  Kristel has also worked in New England and the Mid Atlantic as a grant-writer for organizations focused on water quality, food systems, and community and economic development.  She holds B.A.s in Political and Environmental Studies from Gordon College in Massachusetts and a Master of Community Planning and Development from the Muskie School of Public Service at University of Southern Maine, where her graduate work focused on land use and environmental planning.