Eighty scholars were selected from among 510 candidates nominated by 239 colleges and universities. Each scholarship provides up to $5,000 for one year.

Students who receive a Udall scholarship display a strong interest in pursuing careers related to the environment.

“I want to be instrumental in reorganizing our nation's food system around environmentally responsible local and regional agriculture to help our nation gain energy independence from fossil fuels, practice sustainable land and resource management and strengthen regional economies,” Fox wrote in her application. “Additionally, I aim to streamline urban and suburban agriculture initiatives to increase food security and help people understand the inextricable connection between human and environmental health.”

The Morris K. Udall Foundation is an independent federal agency that was created by Congress in 1992 to honor Congressman Udall's legacy of public service. Congressman Udall served in the House of Representatives for three decades, a career distinguished by civility, integrity and consensus.

The 2009 Udall Scholars will assemble August 5-9, 2009, in Tucson, Ariz., to receive their awards and meet policymakers and community leaders in environmental fields, tribal healthcare and governance.