“Since becoming a Udall scholar, I have had the opportunity to connect with a network of dedicated and forward-thinking public servants,” Hodges said. “Speaking with like-minded students and hearing advice from scholar alumni has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams.”

Her future goals include pursuing an MS in environmental studies and a career implementing climate action plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in cities. Hodges has already begun her public service career as board member and chair of the Go Greener Commission for the City of West Lafayette, which helped to establish new locations for food waste donations.

“Madison’s leadership efforts and commitment to a public service in creating a more sustainable system for food waste has significantly impacted the food waste stream in this community by diverting over 12,000 pounds of food waste from private housing at the university to the West Lafayette anaerobic digester producing nearly 1,500 kWh of energy and reducing CO2 emissions since spring of 2019,” said Lindsey Payne, assistant professor of practice in environmental and ecological engineering. “I strongly believe Madison will be incredibly effective as a public servant in building resilient, sustainable communities.”

Hodges was also recently recognized by the Center for the Environment for her exceptional achievements thus far in her academic career.

Both Hodges and Payne will be participating in “Food Waste: A Panel Discussion on Global to Local Solutions” on September 22 from 6-7:30 pm in Hiler Theater, WALC. This event, which is free and open to the public, will provide a detailed look at how food loss and food waste impacts communities and sustainability efforts worldwide.