The University of Connecticut has nominated three students for the Udall Undergraduate Scholarship, which is awarded to college sophomores or juniors who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the environment through participation in campus activities or service to their community. Learn more about UConn’s nominees below.
Kanika Chaturvedi ’26 (CLAS) is a sophomore from Danbury, CT. She is an Honors student currently majoring in environmental studies with a minor in psychology. Driven by her dedication to sustainability and environmental justice, she actively contributes to the cause as a Sustainability Intern at UConn’s Office of Sustainability. There, she spearheads initiatives aimed at promoting environmental justice while also playing a pivotal role in the communications team to foster greater community engagement on environmental issues. Kanika helps supervise the Eco-Captain program, as well, to ensure that awareness about sustainability is widespread among the student body. Beyond her environmental endeavors, she serves as the Philanthropy Chair for the Hindu Students Organization, striving to enrich UConn’s campus by integrating her cultural heritage. Kanika plans to pursue a law degree, and hopes to specialize in environmental law, driven by her desire to advocate for those disproportionately affected by environmental injustices.
Amanda Stowe ’26 (CAHNR) is a sophomore Honors student from Newtown majoring in environmental sciences with a concentration in sustainable systems and a minor in ecology & evolutionary biology (EEB). Amanda is a Sustainability Intern for the Office of Sustainability, playing a pivotal role on the communications team and in planning conservation and sustainability focused initiatives. Amanda is also an ambassador for the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources and is the secretary of the UConn Chapter of the Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS). This past summer Amanda was a Conservation Intern for the Newtown Forest Association, where she conducted field research on invasive species, and a Field Research Intern for Global Treks and Adventures on the Big Island, Hawaii, where she researched species and conservation efforts on the island. Amanda aspires to pursue a career as a conservation scientist, protecting endangered species and restoring threatened habitats.
Andy Zhang ’26 (CLAS & CAHNR), from Sandy Hook, CT, is a second-year student double-majoring in economics and environmental science with minors in social responsibility & impact in business and environmental science & policy. He is passionate about delving deeper into the intersection of economic, social, and environmental factors as well as the role that businesses can play in mitigating the climate crisis. On campus, he serves as an intern at the Office of Sustainability, Difference Maker Mentor for the Natural Resources Conservation Academy, and student ambassador for the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources.
Congratulations to all three of UConn’s 2024 Udall Scholarship nominees!
