Georgia Tech student Thomas Christian has been named 2008 Morris Udall Scholar. Christian is the first Georgia Tech student to win this honor, which is awarded to students who have demonstrated commitment to careers related to the environment.

"I feel a great sense of accomplishment," said Christian. "This honor is a great achievement and the fact that I am Georgia Tech's first ever Udall is something that I deeply proud of."

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.

"Morris K. Udall was an amazing public servant, and living up to his legacy is something I will strive for continually for the rest of my life," said Christian. "I am extremely proud of being part of the 80 college students in America who are being recognized for our dedication to improving the world in which we live by commitment to careers related to the environment. I am confident that this honor will strengthen and inspire me for years to come."