Charitable Gift to UW School of Energy Resources Advances Mining Technology and Research

The University of Wyoming (UW) School of Energy Resources (SER) is the recipient of a key gift dedicated to the advancement of technologies for critical mineral exploration, recovery, and mining.

 

The gift from John L. Morgan and his wife, Karen, establishes the John and Karen Morgan Next-Generation Mining Technology Fund. The fund fosters excellence and supports research, development, and innovation within SER. It focuses on the development of next-generation mining and extraction technologies that utilize artificial intelligence to target and recover critical minerals from the subsurface.

 

The gift was doubled by state matching funds, which were explicitly allocated to build artificial intelligence expertise.

 

“We are deeply grateful for this investment to help develop the next generation of mining technologies,” says SER Senior Director of Research Scott Quillinan. “This gift allows us to expand our work in critical mineral research–specifically by integrating cutting-edge artificial intelligence applications. AI is reshaping the energy and mining industries at a rapid pace, and with this gift, the University of Wyoming is well-positioned to lead in this area.”

 

A native of Newcastle, Wyo., Morgan earned his bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering from the University of Wyoming in 1973. He has enjoyed a career spanning more than four decades in the energy sector, including leadership roles with Sierra Hamilton, Inc. and BP. He also co-founded Compass Resources Corporation, which focuses on energy assets in Wyoming and Texas. He led advancements in oil and gas exploration, production, and operations management, leaving a lasting impact on global resource development.

 

Grateful for the education and opportunities UW provided, the Morgans are paying it forward by supporting student research and innovation. Their generous gift will equip future generations with the tools and knowledge to advance resource development and to ensure Wyoming remains a leader in the energy sector.

 

“When alumni give back, they aren’t just supporting a building or a program–they’re investing directly in the next generation,” says Teddi Freedman, senior director of development at the UW Foundation. “This kind of generosity ensures that our students have the resources they need to become the innovative leaders who will define the future of energy and keep Wyoming at the forefront.”