Matt Truesdale always wanted to be outside as a kid. Today, it’s his job.
As the new Environmental Educator at Washington Crossing Historic Park, Matt has many plans for when the park fully reopens. He’s itching to get going.
“I’ve seen how beneficial being outside is for people…this pandemic has really driven that home,” Matt says. “My job is to help the public discover the outdoors and learn about all its wonders. Every program I run is meant to get people to connect with nature. I bring my passion for the outdoors to my job, and I hope people notice my enthusiasm.”
A 2010 Penn State graduate, Matt didn’t immediately know what direction he wanted to take in life. “I was a graphics major, but I realized I couldn’t sit at a desk all day,” he says. “I eventually switched to Recreation, Park and Tourism Management with an emphasis on environmental interpretation.”
Matt did an internship with the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and later a year of service in AmeriCorps as an education coordinator for a Johnstown, PA, nonprofit. Various environmental-related jobs followed in Pennsylvania, Texas and Colorado.
“I’m very happy to be back in Pennsylvania and part of the park system,” Matt says. “I plan to offer a variety of programs and experiences for people once the park fully reopens. Friday bird walks, a backpacking program, intro to camping…I have a lot of ideas.”
