The Harold Hamm Foundation and Continental Resources announced Dec. 15 a combined $50 million gift creating the Hamm Institute for American Energy at Oklahoma State University.
The Hamm Institute’s mission is to educate the next generation of energy leaders — in Oklahoma, the United States and from around the world — cementing Oklahoma’s legacy as a global energy leader.
The initial funding for the institute and project will be a gift of $50 million — $25 million from the Harold Hamm Foundation and $25 million from Continental Resources. The Hamm Institute will be located in what was formerly known as OSU Discovery, 300 NE 9th St. in the Oklahoma City Innovation District, and will become the primary and permanent occupant of the building.
The Hamm Institute will become the center of all things American energy. It will host symposiums, authors, speakers, energy summits and global energy leadership conversations. The building will eventually house the Oklahoma Hall of Energy Legends Interactive Museum, a public exhibit highlighting the history and storied legacy of Oklahoma’s great energy leaders.
Hamm, a native Oklahoman and founder and chairman of Continental Resources, began his career in oil and gas over five decades ago, starting out with a single oil service truck and a dream. His incredible journey, entrepreneurial spirit and will to change the world for the better have inspired countless others, and his latest philanthropic push aims to elevate the state to both new and familiar heights.
Hamm is recognized as a national leader and staunch advocate of America’s domestic oil and natural gas industry. He has spent over five and a half decades in the industry, from starting his own oil services business to founding one of America’s most dynamic and innovative exploration and production companies, Continental Resources. His efforts have contributed to the well-being of every American and are helping secure the nation’s energy and economic security. The Hamm Institute will ensure America leads the world when it comes to advancing innovation and technology while responsibly producing the energy we need for decades to come.