Critical Mineral Expert to Speak at UW School of Energy Resources

Melissa Sanderson, co-chair of the Critical Mineral Institute, is the final speaker in the University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources’ (SER) Distinguished Speaker Series Friday, April 17.

Sanderson will speak from noon-1 p.m. in the UW Energy Innovation Center’s Encana Auditorium. The free lunch presentation is open to all students, members of the campus community and the public.

Sanderson will discuss how critical minerals are vital for the United States’ future.

A globally recognized leader and adviser, Sanderson specializes in geopolitics and environmental, social and governance strategies, with a career that spans over four decades. She has made significant contributions across multiple sectors, including mining, critical minerals and international relations, leveraging her deep expertise in sustainable development, corporate social responsibility and strategic foresight.

Sanderson has been recognized as one of the “100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining” and has received the U.S. State Department Superior Honor Award. She holds a B.A. in economics, a B.A. in English literature and an MBA, all from Xavier University. She is a polyglot, fluent in several languages, including French and Spanish.

In 2020, Sanderson founded Sanderson Consulting LLC, where she advises companies on sustainable development and environmental, social and governance solutions. Additionally, she is the board chair for American Rare Earths Ltd. and the recently appointed co-chair for the Critical Mineral Institute.

“We are thrilled to welcome Melissa back to campus,” says SER Director of Outreach Christine Reed. “The University of Wyoming is currently spearheading several vital research projects in the critical mineral sector, and we look forward to the insights her leadership will bring. We are particularly eager to connect her with our internal experts to explore new avenues for collaboration.”

A livestream of the presentation can be viewed at https://uwyo.zoom.us/j/93697866754.

For more information, email Reed at christine.reed@uwyo.edu.