Udall Honors

Environmental science and electrical engineering double major James Wang ’19 is one of just 49 Udall Scholarship recipients for 2018. Wang is studying how traffic affects health and says he wants to “take action to combat climate change and improve the world using my technical skills as an engineer.” The Udall scholarships recognize leading college sophomores and juniors for public service and commitment to Native American nations or to the environment. The $7,000 scholarship includes a four-day orientation, where students work with Udall alumni on environmental case studies.

The scholarship committee also recognized Efren Oxlaj Tambito ’19 with an honorable mention. Born in Guatemala, Oxlaj Tambito is one of Santa Clara’s first-generation college students and LEAD scholars. Over two years of working for the nonprofit Rising Sun Energy Center, Oxlaj Tambito helped 600 homes become more energy- and water-efficient. He is also a Global Social Benefit Fellow with Miller Center for Social Entrepreneurship.

Truman Finalist

Huda Navaid ’19 was one of 194 finalists for a Truman Scholarship, a graduate fellowship program for students pursuing careers as public service leaders. The finalist list was culled from 756 student applications. The $30,000 scholarship recognizes community service, a commitment to a career in government or nonprofits, and stellar academics. Navaid plans to pursue a master’s degree in conflict resolution studies and a Ph.D. in global health studies.