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This award is given annually to recognize graduates within the last 15 years for their service to society, their professional and technical accomplishments, and their demonstrated leadership.

Laura works for the Minnesota State Energy Office (SEO), housed in Minnesota’s Department of Commerce and based in St. Paul, MN. Since joining the SEO in 2023, Laura has overseen solar and battery programs, as well as a study to determine the optimal amount of energy storage needed for Minnesota to reach 100% clean energy by 2040. Simultaneously, Laura also managed Minnesota’s 2024 quadrennial energy and conservation report: 180+ pages encompassing everything from progress on massive federal energy programs; growth of hydrogen, storage, and renewables; and projections for Minnesota’s energy future. In mid-2024 Laura won a state Achievement Award for her outstanding contributions towards these clean energy efforts. Previously, Laura gained management and engineering experience through roles at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, U.S. Department of Energy, and Stantec Consulting Services.

Laura received her bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Rochester in 2014 with a minor in environmental engineering. After graduating, Laura continued her tradition of volunteering with communities that reflect her passions and principles. This has included volunteering with the UR Real Reader program, where she will mentor her 15^th undergraduate this fall. The program allows students to select an alum whose career path most interests them. For Laura this means helping UR chemical and mechanical engineering students find ways to combine their majors with their passion for the environment. (The program is always looking for more volunteers in engineering fields!) Laura also served on the board of Minnesota’s state engineering union for many years. In 2021 she joined the Boundary Waters Advisory Committee, where she helps maintain footrails in Minnesota’s northernmost wilderness areas and engage new volunteers and donors. In her free time Laura also volunteers with local nonprofits, particularly Friends of the Mississippi River and Great River Greening, to protect and reestablish native plant habitats in Twin Cities metro area parks.