The Tracy Farmer Institute for Sustainability and the Environment (TFISE) was officially established on July 1, 2009. Dr. Paul Bertsch serves as director and Dr. Carol Hanley as associate director. They provide primary leadership for the Institute, which is administratively housed under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Dr. Jim Tracy. The integrated trans-disciplinary research agenda of the Institute is advanced by the faculty of the environment (FoTE) and supported by the staff of TFISE.

Our Mission

To improve built, managed, and natural environments thereby enhancing the health and well being of Kentuckians and the global community and

To promote sustainable development, sound energy policies, and effective environmental stewardship through an integrated trans-disciplinary program of fundamental and applied research, education, and public service.