Welcome to our new Restoration Program Manager: Dr. Kelsey Schultz

We are excited to announce Dr. Kelsey Schultz as our new Restoration Program Manager!

Kelsey brings over 10 years of experience in oyster restoration, aquaculture research, and coastal community engagement to MOP. But her interest in conservation began even earlier—from studying harmful algae blooms in the fresh waters of Lake Erie in her home state of Ohio.

After earning her B.S. in Biology from The Ohio State University, Kelsey moved to Boston for the Three Seas Master’s Program at Northeastern University. 

“I got fascinated by oysters,” Kelsey says. “They’re such incredible ecological powerhouses.”

She earned both her Master’s and her PhD in Marine and Environmental Science from Northeastern, where her research examined how to more efficiently provide ecosystem services to increase human well-being as well as ecosystem health and function.

“I’m interested in how we can strengthen coastal ecosystems in ways that benefit both the environment and the communities connected to them,” she says.

Throughout her research, Kelsey developed a deep appreciation for the role oysters historically played along the Massachusetts coast.

“Learning about the history of oysters in Massachusetts was really eye-opening. New England is so famous for oysters, I didn’t realize the extent of reefs that have been lost here. That’s what makes me want to be part of building it.”

In her spare time, Kelsey enjoys spending time with her friends and family, cheering on the Cleveland Cavaliers, and hiking around the many natural environments New England has to offer with her dog, Bernie. 

Learn more about our restoration programs or sign up to volunteer with Massachusetts Oyster Project here.