The Payne Institute for Public Policy at Colorado School of Mines in Golden has appointed Richard Luarkie as the director of the Native American Mining and Energy Sovereignty Initiative. Established in 2024, the initiative aims to support tribal communities and serve as a leader in discussions on critical mineral and energy development in the western U.S.
Luarkie brings more than two decades of experience in economic and business development within Indian Country. His background includes roles across tribal, public and private sectors, where he has specialized in business development and economic advancement.
The initiative, associated with one of the leading universities in mineral and energy engineering, will focus on empowering tribal communities through knowledge and collaboration. Its goal is to help these communities achieve financial success during the energy transition while gaining energy security and sovereignty.
“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.
“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.
Luarkie has previously served as a two-term Governor for the Pueblo of Laguna in New Mexico and has extensive expertise in competitor analysis, business capture strategy and technology transfer. His academic credentials include 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.
