Carolina Ocean Odyssey Marine Educator

Jackson Thompson

Jackson grew up in North Carolina and attended high school in the small mountain town of Sparta, where spending time outdoors helped spark her love for the environment. During high school, she attended Sea Turtle Camp and became scuba certified- an experience that inspired her passion for marine conservation, environmental protection, and environmental policy.

She is currently a student at the University of Miami, studying Marine Affairs and Ecosystem Science and Policy, and will graduate in May 2026. Through her coursework and research, Jackson has explored coastal management solutions along the North Carolina coast, focusing on how science and policy can work together to protect marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

When she’s not studying, Jackson loves being in the water- especially swimming, snorkeling, and spending time at the beach. She also loves to dance (even though she’ll admit she’s not very good at it) and is always up for a good laugh with friends. Her favorite marine animal is the seahorse- one she still hopes to spot in the wild someday.

Jackson is thrilled to return to Sea Turtle Camp as a counselor and is excited to help campers learn, explore, and develop their own love for the ocean in a fun and supportive environment.