Meet iSustain’s 2025 Sustainability Endowment Recipient: Jesse Roman

Each year, iSustain spotlights a University of Tennessee graduate student whose work and leadership point toward a more sustainable future. This year, we’re excited to celebrate Jesse Roman, a dual-degree MBA and chemical engineering student at the Univeristy of Tenessee, whose passion for bio-based materials aligns with the kind of practical, forward-thinking innovation the iSustain Sustainability Endowment is designed to accelerate.

Investing in Future Sustainability Leaders

The iSustain Sustainability Endowment helps UT graduate students pursue research, coursework, and career pathways that advance environmental innovation across business, engineering, and the sciences. Through ongoing contributions—including iSustain’s most recent investment—the fund has now reached $1 million, strengthening UT’s ability to educate and support the next generation of sustainability leaders.

Jesse’s selection reflects that shared commitment: iSustain’s focus on investing in emerging talent, and UT’s mission to prepare graduates to lead in industries where sustainability and innovation must go hand in hand.

About Jesse

A Background in Biochemistry & Bio-Based Innovation

Jesse grew up in Kissimmee, Florida, and later attended New College of Florida, where he earned a degree in biochemistry. During his undergraduate years in Sarasota, he spent much of his free time outdoors, developing a deep appreciation for Florida’s ecosystems and the challenges they face.

His interest in sustainability sharpened during an independent research project where he extracted renewable polymers from natural materials like shrimp shells and seagrass. This exploration eventually led to a senior thesis focused on bio-based electrical components. While many of his peers pursued medical or clinical paths, Jesse realized his interests lay in developing environmentally responsible alternatives to everyday materials.

“I’ve always loved being outdoors,” he shared. “The more I learned about the chemicals and materials we use, the more I wanted to understand how to create alternatives that support the natural world rather than harm it.”

Expanding His Impact Through Interdisciplinary Study

Jesse is now pursuing a dual degree at the Haslam College of Business and the Tickle College of Engineering. This combined program allows him to explore sustainability from both scientific and business perspectives, preparing him to contribute to innovation within the chemical manufacturing sector.

His coursework, especially in operations and product development, has emphasized sustainable practices throughout supply chains and manufacturing systems. Coupled with his research experience, these studies have helped solidify his career interests in bio-based product innovation.

Outside the classroom, Jesse gained practical experience as a water analysis courier and lab analyst, as well as a habitat restoration contractor in Florida wetlands. Both roles strengthened his belief that environmental health and technological progress must be developed in tandem.

A Clear Vision for His Future Career

Jesse’s long-term goal is to work in product management or chemical engineering within a manufacturer that prioritizes sustainable innovation. He hopes to help companies build out their bio-based product lines and develop cleaner, safer materials that reduce environmental impact.

His vision is straightforward but ambitious: help society advance “in a way that’s more agreeable to biological life.”

A Timely Gift for a Graduate Student

Jesse first learned about the iSustain Sustainability Endowment during a meeting with a financial advisor. After spotting an article about iSustain in a Haslam publication, he looked into the endowment and learned he was eligible for consideration. Because relocating for graduate school created financial challenges, the support came at a crucial time.

“I was really happy when I found out. It helps tremendously,” he said. “It takes pressure off and lets me focus more on the work I came here to do.”

Readers can revisit the profile on Emma Strieter, the inaugural recipient, to see how the endowment continues to shape student journeys.

The Person Behind the Research

When he’s not studying, Jesse is most at home outdoors. He enjoys trail running, going to UT football games, visiting local coffee shops with outdoor seating, and staying active in general. He also volunteers with the Rocky Top Veterans Foundation, supporting local veterans through community events and outreach. And although he doesn’t have a dog yet, he already knows what he wants someday: a standard poodle with the energy to match his lifestyle.

He credits mentors like Dr. Briana Aguila-Ames for encouraging his interest in renewable materials, and he takes pride in relying on self-discipline to stay grounded and focused. Jesse also expressed deep gratitude for Dr. Dale Dixon, the owner of the water analysis company where he worked during his undergraduate years. Dr. Dixon was flexible with Jesse’s class schedule, gave him meaningful opportunities early in his career, and, as Jesse put it, “is just a great man.”

Supporting Tomorrow’s Sustainability Leaders

The iSustain Sustainability Endowment exists to help emerging leaders pursue the research, coursework, and career opportunities that will shape a cleaner, more sustainable future. Jesse’s passion for renewable materials, his interdisciplinary training, and his commitment to environmental problem-solving embody exactly what this investment is meant to foster.

We are proud to support Jesse as he continues his academic journey and prepares to make meaningful contributions to sustainable innovation.

Congratulations, Jesse. Your work represents the future we all want to build.

To learn more about Jesse or to connect with him, visit his profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-roman-5b319922b