Jackson, Tennessee Project

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Jackson, Tennessee Project

Project Mentors

NATHAN OBRYANT, LEAD MENTOR

Huntingdon, Mississippi

I’m a husband and father, investment advisor, and recently became the lead mentor for this Jackson, Tennessee Project. I love fly fishing and fly tying. My favorite place to fish is Rock Creek in Montana, but I love fishing any river/stream that I get a chance to.

JOE ASKEW, MENTOR

Jackson, Mississippi

I’m a husband to Dr. Rachel Askew, 15 yr Higher Ed Administrator Lifetime lover of fishing. I have fished in Tennessee, Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, Colorado, Nevada, California, and Alaska, but I enjoy fishing anywhere fish can be caught. If anyone is out there looking to sponsor a trip, Patagonia, New Zealand, or Argentina are on the bucket list.

DAVE CLOUSE, MENTOR

Jackson, Mississippi

Faith, Family, FHU, and Fly Fishing describes Dave’s priorities. He’s active in his church, enjoys being with family, and fly fishing whenever there’s an opportunity. Dave has served Freed-Hardeman University since 1996 and is currently VP for Community Engagement leading all fundraising, marketing, alumni, and enrollment management efforts. Dave and Eve live in Jackson, TN and have three children.

JOHNNY EDWARDS, MENTOR

Jackson, Mississippi

Johnny is a Retired Sales & Management , Married 46 years, first fly rod at age 12 fishing for bream in Mississippi. Favorite destination is Gaston’s in North Central Arkansas on the WhiteFaith.

DAVID BAKER, MENTOR

Jackson, Mississippi

I am 67 years old and about to be retired. Worked in transportation management most of my working career. Member of Campbell Street Church of Christ. Am an avid outdoors person.  Have been hunting and fishing most of my life.

MATTHIEU DOURNAUX, MENTOR

Jackson, Mississippi

My name is Matthieu Dournaux. I grew up in Orlando, FL and moved to Tennessee after college. I reside in Jackson, TN with my wife Erin. I am a Christian and work as a Customer Service Manager for a coating factory in town. I enjoy fishing very much; from the saltwater fishing I did growing up in Florida to the fly fishing I learned from my father-in-law. I really appreciate The Mayfly Project and the opportunities it has opened up for the children and for myself as a mentor. Getting to know each of them is impactful and rewarding. Looking forward to another great year!

RACHEL ASKEW, MENTOR

Jackson, Mississippi

I am married to the man who introduced me to fly fishing, Mr. Joe Askew. I’ve fished in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Colorado. Although I often catch more branches than fish, I enjoy the peaceful time on the water and the excitement of hooking a fish. I’m a former middle school science teacher and love exploring the world and how it works. Currently, I work at Vanderbilt University as a postdoctoral researcher where I study elementary science education and support science teachers.

EVAN BAUGH, MENTOR

Nashville, Tennessee 

I’m born and raised in Nashville Tennessee. I’ve been fishing my whole life starting with the pond on my grandmother’s farm. Fly fishing throughout the south and adventures in the northeaster rivers and ocean. Grew up with four brothers and now help coach nephews’ soccer and baseball teams. Always keep my rod in my car and constantly looking for new water to hit. Currently trying to help the Jackson TN project in hopes of building Nashville back up.

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