Spears Business sophomore Lay earns Udall Scholarship recognition after research on Native American communities
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
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Spears School of Business sophomore Avery Lay has been awarded honorable mention in the Tribal Policy category of the 2025 Udall Scholarship competition.
A citizen of the Cherokee Nation and a Cobell Scholar, Lay has conducted research focusing on Elouise Cobell’s impact on Native American communities, particularly in tribal trust management and federal accountability.
“Receiving the Udall National Scholar honorable mention means a great deal to me,” Lay said. “The award recognizes academic achievement, consistency and dedication. I am grateful that the effort I’ve put into my studies and community involvement has been noticed and valued. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence because I take pride in doing my best. I am reminded that growth is a process, and recognition like this is a milestone along the journey.”
Lay has served as an intern with the Southern Plains Tribal Health Board, where she gained insight into the widespread health challenges faced by Native communities. Lay is also a member of the Honors College, the Native American Student Association and Business Student Council.
An economics major with a pre-law emphasis, Lay hopes to pursue a career specializing in tribal land rights, economic justice and public health policy. She plans to be an advocate for stronger protections for Native lands, ensure equitable resource distribution, and address systemic health disparities that affect tribal nations.
“My experiences at OSU have really helped shape the kind of impact I want to make,” Lay said. “Being part of such a driven community pushes me to think beyond personal success. Through classes, group projects and campus events, I have seen how collaboration and small actions can create real change. In particular, the Office of Scholar Development and Undergraduate Research has been an incredible resource to me, introducing wonderful mentors. Whether it was working with peers from different backgrounds or learning from professors who are passionate about their fields, I’ve been inspired to make a positive impact wherever I go by being someone who uplifts others and brings fresh ideas to the table.”
Lay is Oklahoma State University’s 12th Udall Honorable Mention, and this is the sixth consecutive year in which at least one OSU student has been recognized in an Indian Country category.
The Udall Undergraduate Scholarship program honors the legacies of Morris and Stewart Udall, whose careers had significant impact on Native American self-governance, health care and the stewardship of public lands. The competitive scholarship identifies future leaders in these areas.