About
Kelly Zepelin is an Adjunct Professor at Naropa University specializing in Cultural Anthropology, with a PhD (2022) from the University of Colorado, Boulder and an MA (2015) from Colorado State University. She is currently pursuing an additional MA in Clinical Mental Health.
Her educational background includes:
- PhD in Cultural Anthropology, 2022, University of Colorado, Boulder
- MA in Cultural Anthropology, 2015, Colorado State University
- Current: MA in Clinical Mental Health (in progress)
Her research examines intersections of ecological and human health through wild food traditions, ethics, soil microbiology, and decolonization. Fieldwork with American West foragers explores how harvesting practices shape ethics, identity, resilience, and ecological awareness. She also investigates nature-based therapies for chronic illness and autoimmune conditions, merging anthropological insights with clinical mental health approaches.
Her publication "Root Mothers and Reciprocity" exemplifies her focus on ethical frameworks within foraging communities, highlighting decolonial perspectives and reciprocal human-environment relationships across North America.
Major recognitions include:
- Fulbright Scholar designation
- 2021 David M. Schneider Award (American Anthropological Association)
- 2021 CU Dissertation Completion Fellowship
- 2019 Cartwright Award
- 2018 CU Research Award in Cultural Anthropology
- 2016 Sheryl R. Young Memorial Fellowship
While specific grant details beyond awarded fellowships aren't provided, her work has gained public visibility through features in Boulder Magazine. No formal advising roles or laboratory affiliations are documented in the source material.
