Payne Institute for Public Policy Welcomes Dr. Richard Luarkie as director of the Native American Mining and Energy Sovereignty Initiative

The Payne Institute for Public Policy at Colorado School of Mines is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Richard Luarkie as the Director of the Native American Mining and Energy Sovereignty Initiative.

Dr. Luarkie brings over two decades of leadership experience in economic and business development within Indian Country. A visionary leader, he has successfully navigated diverse roles across tribal, public and private sectors, excelling in business development, strategy and economic advancement.

Housed at Colorado School of Mines, one of the world’s foremost universities in mineral and energy engineering, the Native American Mining and Energy Sovereignty Initiative was established in 2024 to be a strong supporter of tribal communities, an effective convener to industry and a thought leader in the national conversation on new critical mineral and energy development in the western U.S. The initiative will empower tribal communities through knowledge and collaboration to find financial success in the energy transition while gaining energy security and sovereignty for their people.

“Dr. Luarkie’s exceptional background and strategic leadership will enhance our efforts to address the critical intersection of Native American sovereignty, mining and energy policy,” said Morgan Bazilian, director of the Payne Institute. “We are excited and honored to have him lead this important initiative.”

“I am honored to lead this groundbreaking initiative at the Payne Institute, where our team will work together to empower Native Nations to become leaders in research and development, to responsibly harness their critical energy resources and human talent to build thriving economies, and to create a legacy of sustainable prosperity for generations to come,” Luarkie said.

Dr. Luarkie’s career spans roles as a tribal leader, entrepreneur and business strategist, including serving as a two-term Governor for the Pueblo of Laguna in New Mexico. His expertise encompasses competitor analysis, business capture strategy, technology transfer and commercialization, making him a dynamic addition to the Payne Institute team.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Luarkie has served on numerous local and national boards and committees, including the Board of Trustees for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of New Mexico, an MBA from New Mexico State University, and a PhD from Arizona State University.

For more information about the Payne Institute for Public Policy and the Native American Mining and Energy Sovereignty Initiative, please visit https://payneinstitute.mines.edu/native-american-mining-and-energy-sovereignty/.

About The Payne Institute for Public Policy
The Payne Institute for Public Policy at Colorado School of Mines is a leading institution dedicated to providing policy solutions to critical challenges in natural resources, energy, and the environment.