Morris K. Udall was Congressman from Arizona for three decades.  In 1992 to honor his civility, integrity, and commitment to public service, Congress authorized the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation.  This foundation awards 75 to 80 scholarships each year to undergraduate students of the environment and related fields and to Native American and Alaska Native undergraduates studying fields related to health care and/or tribal policy.  In addition to managing the Scholarship program, the Foundation establishes other programs that honor Congressman Udall through encouraging "the continued use, enjoyment, and exploration of our nation's rich and bountiful natural resources."

    Owing to the multidisciplinary character of environmental studies, Udall Scholars major in many fields, from natural sciences through political science, geography, public policy, and pre-law.  In addition to fulfilling the home institution's curricular requirements, it is assumed that Udall Scholars will take courses in ethics and public policy and/or explore community service in the area of their potential career field.  Successful candidates are seen as having intellectual talent and the commitment to suitable career objectives to make a significant contribution.

    Each year Holy Cross may nominate up to six students for this award.  If more than six are interested in applying, a preliminary procedure will be established in which drafts of the critical elements of the application are screened by the Graduate Studies Advisor and the Chair of the Environmental Science concentration.  The full application includes a form to fill out detailing your schooling, programs and activities you have participated in while at school, employment, and significant other skills or accomplishments that relate to your interests in the environment.  If you are applying as a Native American or Alaska Native, you will need to document your tribal affiliation or first- or second-degree relationship to a tribal member.  You are also asked to discuss in 600 words or fewer "a significant public speech, legislative act or public policy statement by Congressman Udall and its impact on your field of interest and career goals."  Your research for the essay may be helped by referring to the following web sites:  www.udall.gov  and http://www.123exp-biographies.com/t/00034301791/.  You will also need recommendations from three faculty who know you, your work, and your goals well.  The Graduate Studies Office will provide the required transcript and the Institution Nomination Form, and will submit the package by the deadline in mid-February.  The nominations are reviewed and in April the Scholars are named.  A Scholar Orientation Weekend for all the Scholars is held in mid-August.

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