Never the kind of man to view life as a simple “go to work, punch the clock and head home” routine, Don Briselden sees his life as more of a fabric that is woven from different components such as his work at Philips Exeter Academy, the volunteer work he does with SELT, his service on the Exeter Conservation Commission, and volunteering with his wife, Mary Jo, at the Saint Vincent de Paul food pantry in Exeter.
And if that doesn’t sound like enough, the Briseldens fill whatever time they have left over with hiking, gardening, and enjoying their grandchildren.
Don first volunteered with SELT in 2005 while SELT was fundraising to conserve the Piscassic Greenway, and has been heavily involved ever since. In his time with SELT, Don’s contributions include serving on SELT’s Board of Directors, helping SELT get accredited through the Land Trust Alliance, serving on the Land Conservation Committee, assisting with the acquisition and preparation of the Center Street office building, and of course participating in the planning, design, and construction of The Nan and George Mathey Center for People and Nature at Burley Farms.
The Mathey Center is the culmination of eight years of hard work, compromise, and dedication to a constantly evolving vision. Don’s educational background in civil engineering and experience in facilities management, both with the Navy and Phillips Exeter Academy, made him a natural fit to volunteer to assist with the development of SELT’s new home and community building.
About The Mathey Center, Don says:
“What has been most interesting is the open and inclusive process from the initial vision statement and conceptual design through numerous design iterations to the final design and construction. The Mathey Center success is the result of a participative team effort, especially over the past two years as the final design came together and construction was accomplished. The SELT leadership, SELT staff, architect, contractor, and many volunteers including the building committee are the people behind this success.”
Being part of The Mathey Center team has been a joy for Don, and his participation has only confirmed what his prior experiences in life have taught him; be patient, seek out other views, listen, stay focused, and be committed to the result. And that is apparent when one experiences SELT’s new and beautiful home, situated perfectly within its environment, surrounded by sweeping views and a connection to place. The Nan and George Mathey Center for People and Nature will not only house the SELT Staff, but act as the place where a legacy will be nurtured to grow and be fulfilled.
Thanks to Don’s commitment, expertise, and passions for SELT’s mission to save, share, and steward the lands we love, he was honored as the 2022 SELT Volunteer of the Year. Congratulations Don!