Leadership

Jeff graduated from the University of Richmond and Emory University School of Law. Jeff practiced as an attorney in Atlanta, GA in a private practice before becoming part of a start-up team that created First Commerce Bank. He later co-founded and became president of Consentys, a healthcare information systems company. In the development of the U.S. National Whitewater Center in 2001, Wise oversaw the entire process and had direct management over all aspects. Jeff now oversees all aspects of Whitewater.

Jeff is a CPA who graduated from Western Kentucky University and began his career as a Certified Public Accountant with KPMG. He later worked in financial, operational, and development roles for both large and small start-ups including publicly-traded companies like MedCath and PhyCor, two national healthcare companies. Jeff oversees all financial aspects of Whitewater.

Jesse is an outdoor industry professional with more than a decade of experience in branding, programming and development. Currently, Jesse oversees Marketing, Human Resources and Strategic Planning at the Whitewater Center, as well as leading Whitewater project development in markets throughout the Southeast. Jesse is a graduate of Wake Forest University and completed his MBA at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Mike received his Master’s Degree in Physical Education & Recreation and his Bachelor of Science in Recreation Studies with a concentration in Adventure Recreation, Summa cum Laude, from Ohio University. For over 24 years, Mike has worked in the outdoor recreation industry as a guide, instructor, and manager in five states and Canada.

Angie holds degrees in Business Management and Recreation & Tourism Management from Concord University. She worked in retail and guest service management in the hospitality industry for over 5 years and has over ten years of leadership experience in the climbing and outdoor industry. Angie oversees the operation and management of Whitewater’s land-based activities (ziplines, ropes courses, jumps, and rock climbing).

Aaron has over 22 years of experience coaching, guiding, instructing and managing in the outdoor industry. He studied entrepreneurship and business at Belmont Abbey College and is a small business owner with a background in gear design and manufacturing. Aaron oversees Whitewater’s instruction, certification, and youth programming.