This scholarship provides $1,000 to a full time student pursuing an undergraduate degree in an environmental stewardship discipline, including environmental studies, natural resource management, the natural sciences, public administration, public policy, and related disciplines.
SAIGE established this award to honor the memory and legacy of Carol Jorgensen whose service to her family, community, country, and Mother Earth was an inspiration for all.
Carol was Tlingit from the Yandestake Village in southeast Alaska and was part of the Eagle/Killer Whale Fin House of Klukwan. She served many years in public service, most recently as Director of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s American Indian Environmental Office. She had a deep connection to our shared Earth and was a passionate advocate for protecting the environment and human health in American Indian and Alaskan Native communities.
ELIGIBILITY
Eligible applicants must be affiliated with a federally recognized tribe and be a full time student pursuing an undergraduate degree in an environmental stewardship discipline (e.g., environmental studies, natural resource management, the natural sciences, public policy/administration with environmental focus, and related disciplines). Tribal enrollment is not required, but tribal affiliation must be verified by a letter of support from a current or former tribal government official or respected member of the tribal community.
APPLICATION PACKAGE
Transcript: A copy of your most recent undergraduate transcript (enrolled freshmen may substitute a high school transcript).
Letter of Support: Applicants must submit a letter of support from a current or former tribal government official or respected member of the tribal community. This letter should attest to the applicant’s commitment to community service, leadership, or record of participation in the cultural and spiritual life of the community.
Personal Statement: The personal statement is the most important part of the application. It is your opportunity to tell evaluators about yourself and your interest in environmental stewardship. Your essay should be personal, clear, concise, and describe how your undergraduate studies support your commitment to environmental stewardship. We recommend that applicants use their personal statements to highlight any past activities that illustrate a commitment to environmental stewardship. Personal statements should not exceed 2 pages in length and should contain the applicants full name, address, phone number, and e-mail address.
Optional Material: In addition to the above, applicants may include additional documents (e.g., additional letters of support from community members/educators; a personal resume highlighting work or volunteer activities in environmental, natural resource, and/or community services; writing samples; etc.). Evaluators will take these additional materials into account, but they are not required for a complete application package.
APPLICATION PROCESS & DEADLINE
A complete application package (transcript, letter of support, and personal statement) must be received by end of business on June 3, 2011. All material should be sent via e-mail (jones.luke@epa.gov), fax (202.564.0298), or regular mail to:
SAIGE Carol Jorgensen Memorial Scholarship for Environmental Stewardship
c/o Luke Jones, American Indian Environmental Office (2690-M)
US Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20460
