April 22, 2024

We're proud to announce that Calvin Keeys, environmental science '25, has been selected as a 2024 Udall Scholar! 

The Udall Foundation awards scholarships to outstanding sophomore and junior level college students committed to careers related to the environment, tribal public policy, or Native American health care. Scholars are selected on the basis of their leadership, public service, and commitment to these issues. As a Udall Scholar, Calvin will receive financial support for academic expenses, access to the Udall alumni network, and professional development and training at Scholar Orientation. Congratulations, Calvin!

Calvin Keeys
environmental science '25
Environmental category

Calvin Keeys is a third year student at Drexel University pursuing a BS in environmental science and a graphic design minor. His goal is to become a wildlife biologist with a focus on wildlife conservation and protecting endangered animals. He is currently doing research with Dr. Jason Weckstein at the Academy of Natural Sciences on whether the bird species white-winged becard (Pachyramphus polychopterus) follows Gloger’s Rule.

Growing up with an African American father and a Sierra Leonean mother, Calvin is proud of his multicultural background and wants to help provide opportunities to underrepresented communities and individuals in STEM careers. Calvin is a College of Arts and Sciences BRIDGE Scholar, Aspire Scholar (2022-2023 cohort), 2022 STAR Scholar, African Fusion Dance Team Vice President, and a member of the Black Student Union, African Students Association and Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation. Outside of academics, Calvin enjoys drawing, learning about animation, playing video games, bike riding and playing tennis.

Special thanks to the members of Drexel’s 2024 Udall Campus Committee, who worked with Undergraduate Research and Enrichment Programs to review, interview, and advise Calvin on his application:

Emily Kashka-Ginsburg, Undergraduate Research & Enrichment Programs
Ian Zimmermann, Communication; Undergraduate Research & Enrichment Programs
Jen Britton, Climate & Sustainability
Hugh Johnson, The Environmental Collaboratory
Liz Raymond, Steinbright Career Development Center

The Udall Scholarship awards approximately 50 scholarships of up to $7000 to sophomore and junior level college students committed to careers related to the environment, tribal public policy, or Native American health care. The Udall Foundation seeks future leaders across a wide spectrum of environmental fields, including policy, engineering, science, education, urban planning and renewal, business, health, justice, and economics.

For more information, please visit the Udall Foundation website or email fellowships@drexel.edu.