April 22, 2025 - The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum (NMHFM) has announced the 2025 National Mining Hall of Fame inductees and the Prazen Living Legend of Mining Award. The 38th Induction Ceremony will be held at NMHFM and the Colorado Mountain College Climax Molybdenum Leadership Center in Leadville, CO, with the return of Dr. Stephen Enders as emcee and a new edition of Western wear for the dress code.
The following inductees will become a part of the National Mining Hall of Fame for making significant contributions to mining:
John W. "Jack" Goth: For his leadership and advocacy in growing the understanding of technical usages of molybdenum that lead to the molybdenum industry of today. For his recognition of professional trade organizations that support the mining mission as documented in his leadership roles in organizations including National Mining Association, American Metal Market Symposiums, Denver Gold Group, Colorado Mining Association, and the Japanese Metallurgical Society, furthering collaboration and innovation across the industry.
Edward C. Hegeler: For his pioneering design of the retort furnace that enabled commercial scale exploitation of zinc in the U.S. in the 1800’s, which technology enabled commercial scale zinc production globally. For his early leadership in providing employee benefits before their time and providing worker welfare programs for employee health care, accident compensation, and education. For establishing the Open Count Journal, an innovative platform for discussion on science, religion, philosophy, and ethics.
Timothy R. Snider: For his groundbreaking technical innovations, bold leadership, and unwavering commitment to safety and people. Snider consistently demonstrated the courage to implement revolutionary technologies and advance mine development—even in the face of challenging commodity cycles. His entrepreneurial vision and strategic leadership at both Freeport and Cupric Canyon Capital were instrumental in the identification, acquisition, development, and optimization of copper mineral assets.
Jack E. Thompson: For his exemplary and visionary leadership of a major mining company. Under his guidance, Homestake transformed from a single mine producer into a diversified global entity. His strategic foresight and innovative management led the company to operate over 20 mining operations spanning four continents. For his uncompromising commitment to worker safety, environmental responsibility and innovation which has shaped the companies he has led and helped shape the mining industry we know today. For his contributions and active involvement in various industry trade organizations. His work with the World Gold Council, the Gold Institute, and other prominent bodies significantly advanced the importance of precious metals.
The following individual is being given the Prazen Living Legend of Mining Award:
David Kanagy is recognized for his outstanding leadership in guiding numerous educational, outreach and fundraising initiatives that have served and inspired countless professionals across the Minerals industry. During his twenty + years of service as the Executive Director of SME (Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration), Kanagy has contributed significantly to the growth of SME's relevance, programming, and global reach as the largest mining Technical Society in the World. He has been a driving force in advancing initiatives within the SME Foundation and related organizations responsible for disseminating mining/mineral information and technology; promoting professional development and outreach education and changing the public narrative on the significant role that the minerals industry plays in our everyday lives. Kanagy has been a tireless advocate for environmentally and socially responsible mining, the advancement of automation and technology in the industry, promoting the highest standards for worker health and safety, and supporting academic programs through SME's role in ABET accreditation, student scholarships, and faculty development programs. The breadth of his accomplishments have had a profound impact on all sectors of the industry now and in the future.
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