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Amanda Shaffer Wins Udall Scholarship

 

The award allots up to $5,000 to students intending to pursue careers in environmental public policy.

Shaffer is among about 75 students from across the country to receive a Udall Scholarship for the 2001-02 academic year. The Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation was authorized by Congress in 1992 to honor of the long-time congressional representative from Arizona. Udall served in the House of Representatives from 1961-91. He championed the rights of Native Americans and Alaska natives, and used his leadership in Congress to strengthen tribal self-governance.

“I hope to use the knowledge and skills I gain from my studies to advocate environmental awareness and policy formation through consumer education and a focus on the interconnectedness of the environment in everyday life,” Shaffer said. “I am excited to have received the Morris K. Udall Scholarship.”

At Occidental, Shaffer developed critical insights and asked probing questions as presentation leader in her environment and society class. As an extra-credit assignment, Shaffer explored the use of the toxic chemical perchlorethylene in Albuquerque dry cleaning facilities.

“Amanda has demonstrated a great deal of passion and commitment around environmental issues and social and environmental justice concerns,” said Robert Gottlieb, professor of urban and environmental policy. “She has thought a great deal about continuing to be engaged around those issues and concerns after graduation.”