$110,000 Dykers family gift strengthens outreach at the San Xavier Mine

When longtime mining education advocate Larry Dykers toured the University of Arizona’s San Xavier Underground Mining Laboratory earlier this year, he was struck by the scale of the School of Mining Engineering and Mineral Resources’ outreach efforts. The visit inspired him and his wife, Iris, to make a $110,000 gift to expand educational programs at the mine. 

For Dykers, the gift represents an investment in the future. 

“I’ve spent my life in mining and education,” he said. “And I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to help people understand where the things we depend on actually come from.”

According to Kray Luxbacher, the Gregory H. and Lisa S. Boyce Leadership Chair of mining and geological engineering and executive director of SMEMR, the Dykers’ contribution demonstrates how individual gifts can have an outsized impact. 

“From hands-on activities in K–12 schools, to our Cu at the Mine teacher program, to educating middle and high school students about careers in this dynamic industry, I’m incredibly proud of the work our outreach team does,” Luxbacher said. “And Larry and Iris Dykers’ generous donation helps us continue to expand these activities.” 

The San Xavier Mine outreach team can now accommodate larger groups for interactive lessons about minerals, geology and sustainable mining practices. 

“This support allows us to reach more schools and make every visit a memorable experience,” said Chris Earnest, San Xavier Mine senior education outreach coordinator. “When students can see and touch the equipment, ask questions, and connect what they learn to the real world, it changes how they think about the resources that shape their lives.” 

A lifelong connection provides perspective 

Dykers grew up in Arizona in a family of engineers, miners and educators. He would continue this legacy to his own career and volunteer work.

Dykers started as a mine laborer before advancing to executive roles, including serving as general manager of Hibbing Taconite Co. in Minnesota and later leading mine evaluation and investment work across the U.S. and internationally. Throughout his career, Dykers served on government committees and subcommittees focused on mining regulation and supported organizations such as the Mining Foundation of the Southwest and the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration.   

“Outreach helps people see how minerals still underpin our quality of life today,” he said. “The only way to build understanding is to start early. Work with young people and their teachers. They’re eager to learn, and they shape how society thinks about mining.” 

Inspiring philanthropy at every level 

The gift will ensure that the San Xavier Mine remains a cornerstone of the university’s outreach mission and inspires the next generation of mining professionals. 

Dykers hopes others will follow suit. 

“You don’t have to give millions to make a difference,” he said. “Every contribution that helps teachers and students learn about minerals and mining has a ripple effect.”