In October 2019, NAU hosted Leaders United for Positive Energy (LUPE), a one-week interdisciplinary learning course that aimed to uncover sustainable, ethical industry practices and develop future scientists and leaders of the energy sector. The course specifically explored the science, development of policy, social justice issues, and industry best practices related to mining. The program was possible by means of a grant awarded to NAU through the 100,000 Strong in the Americas Innovation Fund – an initiative led by Partners of the Americas, the U.S. State Department, and NAFSA.