ATHENS, Ohio -- Two Ohio University juniors have been named recipients of the Morris K. Udall Scholarship, which recognizes students interested in environmental policy.
Natalie Kruse and Deborah Lucas Thornton were two of only 80 recipients and 30 honorable mentions chosen from across the nation to receive the scholarship.
"Each of these students, so different from each other in virtually every way, demonstrated significant commitment to working in the environment and excellence in their respective domains," said Ann Brown, director of the Office of Nationally Competitive Awards. "Excellence has many faces, and we are extremely proud of each student."
The Udall Scholarship supports sophomores and juniors who have outstanding potential and intend to pursue careers in environmental public policy or outstanding Native American and Alaska native students who demonstrate a commitment to pursue a career related to health care or tribal public policy.
Kruse is a civil engineering major with a minor in geology. She was also one of this year's recipients of the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, which rewards math, science and engineering majors of outstanding potential. Kruse was the 2001-02 recipient of the Drs. Cruse W. and Virginia Patton Moss-Manasseh Cutler Scholar Award, a prestigious four-year undergraduate scholarship that provides an annual stipend to cover undergraduate tuition, room and board as well as four summers of enrichment experiences, including study/work abroad.
"Being awarded the Udall Scholarship on top of the Goldwater Scholarship is a huge honor," she said. "I am truly dedicated to environmental reclamation and this is truly an affirmation of all of my hard work."
Kruse plans to pursue a Ph.D. in environmental geochemistry. She hopes to work in the area of mine remediation, conducting research and designing remediation options and resource protection methods for a civil or environmental engineering firm.
"Natalie is very advanced in her studies and very accomplished for such a young student," Brown said. "Just 18 years old, Natalie is already a junior who has done some interesting environmental research, served as a ridge runner on the Appalachian Trail and has performed exceptionally well academically."
Lucas Thornton is double majoring in environmental geography and international studies focusing on Latin America. She wants to work supporting environmental issues internationally.
"Deborah is a nontraditional student who returned to school after 20 years in the work force," said Brown. "Needless to say, it can be difficult returning to school after such a long hiatus, but her determination, perseverance and drive have allowed her to excel."
Thornton is currently in Botswana working with Ted Bernard, a professor of geography, and has previously done research projects in Guatemala, Belize and Israel.
"I was elated and quite surprised to receive the scholarship. This will be a boost to my research," she said. "The letters of recommendation from professors Nancy Bain, Harvey Ballard and Ted Bernard were a huge help, and I am very grateful for their support."
Udall recipients are awarded a stipend of $5,000 for their junior or senior year of undergraduate study towards tuition, fees, room and board. In addition, they will participate in a special scholars weekend sponsored by the foundation in August.
Applicants must be of sophomore or junior standing, have a B average and be in the upper fourth of their class, U.S. citizen or a permanent resident alien. They are required to submit a 1,000-word personal essay, five to eight recommendations and a university endorsement.
