Environmental engineering senior Trisha Jean Lane is one of nine University of Arizona undergraduates selected to perform public policy research as part of a paid mentorship program.

Throughout the fall 2024 semester, each Mo’s Policy Scholar will work closely with a Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy expert researcher or faculty members to support a current project.

Lane is mentored by assistant professor Gemma Smith, who holds a joint appointment with the Udall Center and the university’s School of Government and Public Policy. She is investigating the presence of PFAs – or “forever chemicals” – in urban water supplies and examining how local governments across the United States are addressing regulation and governance of these chemicals.

Lane is a first-generation college student, mother and member of the Diné (Navajo) tribe.

“Growing up on the Navajo Nation reservation without running water or electricity, I witnessed firsthand the challenges of accessing basic necessities,” she said. “This experience instilled in me a profound sense of purpose to address such critical issues.”

Lane is inspired to advocate for sustainable and fair policies, she said. The program – named for Congressman Morris “Mo” Udall, who served as a representative of the state of Arizona for 30 years – will provide professional experience in environmental policy and Indigenous governance research. Lane is part of the program’s second cohort.

After completing her environmental engineering degree in May 2025, Lane intends to pursue a PhD in environmental engineering and build a career dedicated to providing accessible, clean water to low-income, rural communities.