Summit Speakers
I. Katherine Magruder
Executive Director
Maryland Clean Energy Center
Ms. Magruder has focused her career around the balance of environment, economy, and cultural character in effective sustainable economic development. As Executive Director of the Maryland Clean Energy Center she advances the adoption of clean energy products, services, and technologies in Maryland. She oversees administration of the instrumentality, operates financing programs, engages in business development initiatives; and advocates for supportive public policy.
In a prior position as Chief of Staff at the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute; known for performing cutting edge research and transfer of technology to commercial applications; she handled strategic planning, staff management and external relations. During appointment as Director of Resource Based Industries the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (Commerce), she was focused on sustaining the agriculture, forestry, mining, fisheries and maritime industry sectors. Working with multiple agencies and in direct collaboration with the Maryland Energy Administration, she led efforts to develop a statewide approach to advancing alternative energy initiatives and job creation.
Working in key positions with various municipalities on the Eastern Shore, Magruder led local and regional agribusiness, cultural preservation, and ecotourism initiatives. Kathy earned her BFA in Fine Art from Maryland Institute College of Art, holds a professional Certificate in Destination Marketing & Management from George Washington University School of Business & Public Management, and is a recognized as a Certified Economic Developer by the International Economic Development Council.
Geoff Oxnam
Geoff is the founder and CEO of American Microgrid Solutions, an advanced energy ecosystem company dedicated to helping clients reduce expense and increase resilience. American Microgrid Solutions works with a broad range of clients including municipalities, senior housing facilities and commercial property owners. A veteran utility executive, Geoff has executed strategic planning, operations, marketing and communications for utility, telecommunications and environmental non-profit organizations. Prior to founding American Microgrid Solutions, Geoff was Vice President of Operations for Easton Utilities, a nationally recognized municipal utility that provides electric, natural gas, water, wastewater, broadband Internet, cable television and utility management software solutions. Geoff managed the effort to diversify Easton Utilities’ generation portfolio by adding solar PV generation and integrating landfill gas generation. Geoff serves on the board of directors of the Maryland Clean Energy Center, previously chaired the American Public Power Association’s Customer Connections Conference and presents at national events. Geoff is a member of the Leadership Maryland Class of 2010 and was awarded the William Donald Schaefer People Helping People Award in 2016 for his work to improve financial literacy through Junior Achievement. Geoff currently serves of the University of Maryland Medical System Shore Regional Health board of directors and has served several other organizations including the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and the Maryland Broadband Cooperative. Geoff earned his Bachelors of Arts from Williams College and a Masters of Business Administration from The Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School.