Dr. Rita Esuru Okoroafor, an assistant professor at Texas A&M University, has been awarded the Rien van Genuchten Early-Career Award of Porous Media for her dedication to sustainable energy solutions. Her research integrates geochemistry, geomechanics, and reservoir engineering to enhance understanding of fluid-rock interactions, optimize geothermal energy production, and improve hydrogen storage efficiency and CO₂ storage security. Okoroafor's work also focuses on ensuring the impact of subsurface technologies on communities is minimal. She emphasizes the importance of experimentation and simulation to address challenges in geothermal systems, hydrogen storage, and carbon sequestration. The award recognizes her significant contributions and provides opportunities to enhance her research collaborations at the Interpore Conference. Okoroafor's commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in porous media science for a sustainable future is reinforced by her recognition as one of the top 10 pioneering women leaders in hydrogen by Women World Magazine. Her success is attributed to collaborations with students and faculty, supported by institutions like Texas A&M's Energy Institute and various labs. Overall, Dr. Okoroafor's work highlights the importance of porous media research in advancing sustainable energy solutions and ensuring a greener future.