Randolph student receives recognition from Udall Foundation

Paige Edwards ’21

The prestigious Udall Foundation has recognized Randolph student Paige Edwards ’21 for her academic achievements and leadership.

Edwards, who is double majoring in chemistry and environmental science, was recently selected as an honorable mention for the highly competitive 2020 Udall Undergraduate Scholarship. She is the fifth Randolph student to be recognized by the foundation as either a scholar or honorable mention. The last time was in 2011.

The foundation, established in honor of Morris and Stewart Udall, awards scholarships, fellowships, and internships for study in fields related to the environment and to Native Americans and Alaska natives in fields related to healthcare and Tribal public policy.

“As I read more about the work that the foundation does, I became excited about contributing to their mission, which closely aligns with my ideals,” said Edwards, who hopes to use her degree to find solutions to pressing environmental problems like pollution and climate change.

She was nominated by environmental studies professor Karin Warren, who serves as faculty representative for the Udall.

“Only students who have a combination of outstanding academic record and have demonstrated significant leadership accomplishments and aspirations have a chance,” she said. “I do not nominate students to go through the process unless they are very strong contenders.”

Edwards fit the bill, Warren added.

“Paige is an outstanding student academically, and she is deeply committed to promoting environmental awareness and science literacy in our community,” Warren said. “She has served as one of our two head interns successfully running Little Scientists for the Science Festival since her first year at Randolph, and she will be president of the Environmental Club next year. I’m thrilled for her to receive this recognition of her hard work and commitment as she prepares for her senior year.”

As part of the extensive application process, Edwards had to write about her coursework at Randolph and her research in environmental science, which offered a nice chance for reflection.

“It was a good opportunity to reflect on the most impactful classes I have taken,” she said, listing off courses such as water resources and climatology, as well as her participation in the Step-Up to Physical Science and Engineering at Randolph (SUPER) program.

“It is thrilling to be recognized for the work I have done and the leadership roles I have taken with SciFest, tutoring, and sustainability. It makes it seem like all these efforts have an impact on my community,” she said. “Hopefully, with the support of the Udall Foundation, my research can be used to change people’s behavior and affect real change.”