Emma Kelly
New Economy Program Coordinator
Originally from Bell County, Kentucky, Emma holds both a B.A. and M.A. in cultural anthropology, focusing on human rights and environmental justice in Appalachia. She worked on various community outreach projects as a research and teaching assistant for the University of Tennessee, a seasonal interpretive ranger at Natural Tunnel State Park and an outreach intern for the Register of Professional Archaeologists.
Emma is passionate about bringing in as many voices as possible to help build a sustainable and just future for Appalachian communities from the ground up. Her work with Appalachia Voices is centered around equitable collaboration with local communities, building resilience from the ground up, and bringing in funding to make communities’ visions come true.
Emma currently lives in Lee County and loves hiking, gaming, and spending time with her husband, daughter, and furbabies.