Connie Rogers Honored for Shaping the Future of U.S. Mining Law

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – January 29, 2026 – In a move that recognizes decades of influential work at the intersection of law, industry, and community, Parsons Behle & Latimer (Parsons) attorney Connie Rogers has been awarded the American Exploration & Mining Association's (AEMA) 2025 President's Award. The prestigious honor was presented at the AEMA's 131st Annual Meeting, celebrating Rogers' extensive service and leadership in navigating the complex challenges of the modern mining sector.

The award, selected annually by the AEMA president, honors individuals who provide exceptional service to the association. This year's designation commended Rogers for her "outstanding contributions...as a Trustee, Committee Chair, and trusted advisor to the mining community."

"I was completely surprised and deeply honored to have been chosen by AEMA President Jay Gear (Coeur Mining) to receive the 2025 President's Award," Rogers said. "It is always a pleasure working with Jay, the great team at AEMA and the Board of Trustees on issues of real importance to the U.S. mining industry."

Jay Gear, who also serves as Vice President of Environment and Permitting at Coeur Mining, presented the award, emphasizing Rogers' crucial role within the organization. "Connie's leadership and steady guidance through complex issues are widely recognized and respected," Gear stated, highlighting the qualities that have made her an indispensable figure in the industry.

A Legacy of Leadership in Mining Law

Connie Rogers' career, spanning more than 25 years, is a testament to sustained excellence and deep expertise in environmental and natural resources law. Her work at Parsons Behle & Latimer, a firm with roots in the mining industry stretching back to its founding in 1882, has placed her at the forefront of the sector's most pressing legal issues. The firm itself holds a top-tier (Band 1) ranking for its Environment and Natural Resources practice from Chambers USA and a national ranking for its Mining & Metals practice, underscoring the formidable platform from which Rogers operates.

The AEMA President's Award is not merely a recognition of a single achievement but of a career dedicated to strengthening the industry from within. Rogers has served on the AEMA's Board of Trustees and has been a consistent presence at the association's technical sessions, sharing her knowledge on permitting, regulatory compliance, and land use. This long-term commitment has helped shape policy and best practices across the sector.

Mark Compton, AEMA's executive director, noted the depth of her impact. "We were very glad to honor Connie Rogers' tremendous contributions to AEMA and the mining industry," Compton said. "Connie has selflessly given her time and expertise to make AEMA a strong and relevant organization and the mining community a better place."

Beyond the Ore: A New Frontier in Indigenous Relations

Perhaps one of Rogers' most significant contributions, and one that speaks to the evolving landscape of resource extraction, is her pioneering work in fostering better relationships with Indigenous communities. She was the founding co-chair of the AEMA's Native American Resources and Outreach Committee, a role that positioned her as a key architect in building bridges between an industry and the sovereign nations whose ancestral lands often intersect with mineral deposits.

This work comes at a critical time. The global push for sustainability and ethical governance has put a spotlight on the concept of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC), a principle asserting that Indigenous peoples have the right to give or withhold consent for projects affecting them and their territories. While the legal frameworks vary globally, the direction is clear: successful, sustainable mining operations depend on meaningful, respectful, and continuous engagement with Tribal governments. In the U.S., federal permitting now fundamentally requires tribal consultation, a process that demands far more than a simple check-box approach.

Rogers' expertise in matters involving Tribal governments and Indigenous peoples has made her an invaluable guide for companies navigating this intricate terrain. Her work involves advising on cultural resource protection, religious freedom concerns, and the complex web of federal Indian law. By helping establish formal protocols and fostering long-term relationship building, her efforts directly address one of the industry's most significant financial and social risks, transforming potential conflict into collaborative partnership.

The Legal Compass for a Complex Industry

Operating a mine in the 21st century means navigating a labyrinth of regulations, from the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts. For over two decades, Rogers has served as a 'legal compass' for clients, guiding them through the intricate processes of permitting, compliance, and stakeholder engagement. Her ability to anticipate legal hurdles and develop proactive strategies has earned her the reputation of a trusted advisor.

The value of this expertise cannot be overstated. In an industry where projects involve massive capital investment and multi-decade timelines, regulatory delays or legal challenges can be catastrophic. Expert project counsel like Rogers is essential for minimizing risk, ensuring compliance, and ultimately securing the 'social license to operate'—the broad community support that is increasingly vital for project success and access to capital from ESG-focused investors.

Lisa A. Kirschner, a colleague at Parsons and a fellow AEMA board member, praised Rogers' unique ability to foster constructive dialogue. "Connie is a leader in every sense of the word," Kirschner said. "Her insight, integrity and commitment to collaboration have strengthened AEMA and advanced meaningful dialogue across the mining industry."

This award acknowledges not just a successful legal career, but the profound impact one individual can have on an entire industry. By championing collaboration, navigating complex regulations, and pioneering a more inclusive approach to resource development, Connie Rogers is not only being honored for her past contributions but is actively shaping a more responsible and sustainable future for American mining.