Dr. Kelsey Murray

Dr. Kelsey Murray, CEO of Evergreen Aquafarms, is a biomedical and environmental engineer with a passion for sustainability and innovation. With a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering and extensive experience in education, research, and entrepreneurship, she has led transformative projects in aquaponics, human health and the environment, and local food security.

Dr. Murray has held leadership roles in academic and nonprofit organizations, including developing and directing programs in environmental and controlled-environment agriculture. She has spearheaded initiatives such as the construction of geothermal greenhouses, sustainable agriculture training, and the integration of aquaponics into community education.

As a seasoned educator, Dr. Murray has developed and taught over 25 college courses, blending technical expertise with hands-on learning to empower students and professionals. Her work extends to corporate training, where she uses plants as a tool to foster workplace growth, and consulting services, offering sustainable solutions to businesses and communities.

At Evergreen Aquafarms, Dr. Murray combines her expertise in science, engineering, and education to cultivate a future rooted in sustainability and innovation.

Honors and Awards

  • Women in Leadership Class of 2024
    SD CEO Business Center – Recognized as a participant in a prestigious program designed to empower and advance women leaders. (2024)

  • Global Sustainability Award
    Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) – Honored for exceptional contributions to sustainability in education. (2022)

  • National Technical Instructor of the Year Finalist
    American Technical Education Association (ATEA) – Recognized as one of the top four technical educators nationwide for innovative teaching and leadership. (2022)

  • National 3D Futures Design Award, Second Place
    American Technical Education Association (ATEA) – Recognized for excellence in innovative 3D design solutions addressing local hunger through aquaponics. (2020)

  • Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award
    Western Dakota Technical College – Awarded for outstanding contributions beyond job expectations. (2019)

  • Rapid City Sustainability Award
    City of Rapid City Standing Committee on Sustainability – Recognized for advancing local sustainability initiatives. (2019)