The University of Chicago has recognized two of its students, Annie Yang and Seri Welsh, for their dedication to environmental advocacy. Both rising fourth-year students have been acknowledged by the Udall Foundation, an organization that awards scholarships to undergraduates poised to become leaders in fields related to the environment, Tribal public policy, and health care.
Annie Yang has been named a Udall Scholar. The scholarship offers educational funding and the chance to attend a summer orientation with other recipients. Yang is majoring in Environment, Geography and Urbanization, as well as physics. Her interest in environmental causes deepened after visiting a permaculture farm in France before her first year at UChicago.
Yang expressed her gratitude: “I am incredibly honored to have received the Udall Scholarship and am excited to meet and learn from fellow scholars in their network.” She aims to work on sustainable urban design and reform current environmental systems toward circularity.
Seri Welsh received an honorable mention from the foundation. A double major in political science and human rights, Welsh is also pursuing a master’s degree in international relations. Growing up in Arcata, California, she witnessed significant changes in her local landscape due to climate change. This motivated her commitment to environmental justice.
Welsh stated: “Growing up surrounded by redwoods, beaches and mountains, I fell in love with being outdoors at an early age... I have always been passionate about protecting the environment because the consequences of inaction were too great.” She plans on writing her thesis on climate-induced displacement with a focus on international disaster frameworks.
Both students are involved with UChicago's Phoenix Sustainability Initiative. They have taken leadership roles within this organization which aims at promoting sustainability efforts both on campus and beyond.
The College’s Office of National Fellowships provided interview support for both students during their application process for the Udall honors. The office assists undergraduates and alumni who apply for nationally competitive awards.