Written by Ayah Mallah | March 3, 2026 | SHARE
Lehigh University environmental engineering student Alex Azzara has been named a national recipient of the DIS Green Scholarship, earning $10,000 to support her Spring 2026 semester studying sustainability in Denmark.
From biking through the streets of Copenhagen to touring cutting-edge renewable energy facilities, Alex Azzara is experiencing sustainability not just as a field of study, but as a way of life.
The Lehigh University environmental engineering student has been named one of only ten recipients nationwide of the DIS Green Scholarship and will receive $10,000 to support her Spring 2026 semester abroad in Denmark.
The DIS Green Scholarship — offered through DIS Abroad, a partner of Lehigh’s study abroad office — recognizes students committed to environmental sustainability and global impact. Recipients are selected for their academic achievement, dedication to environmental issues and potential to contribute to sustainable innovation.
Inspired by Sustainability
Azzara’s interest in environmental engineering began with a desire to work in sustainability and environmental practices, paired with an enthusiasm for STEM disciplines. “I knew I wanted to work in sustainability and environmental practices, and I enjoyed STEM-related topics,” she said.
When she learned she had been selected, the recognition carried both personal and academic significance. As someone who had not previously received this type of scholarship support, the award represented meaningful support for pursuing a field she is passionate about.
“It was a rewarding experience to get extra support to study something I am passionate about, and something that ties so closely with the scholarship's intended purpose,” Azzara said. “I think it is important to encourage and support people who want to pursue careers in sustainability-related fields and appreciate the opportunity to be recognized for my work.”
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Lehigh, Azzara participates in the IDEAS program and has also conducted research with the Office of Creative Inquiry working on the development of a bioplastic aimed at reducing plastic pollution. That hands-on experience strengthened her commitment to building a more sustainable future and helped prepare her for studying abroad.
During her semester in Copenhagen, Azzara is enrolled in courses focused on waste management, renewable energy systems, sustainable development and urban design. She has embraced the city’s culture of sustainability in everyday life as well. “I’ve really been enjoying biking everywhere and whenever it is feasible,” she said. “I’ve found it's a great way to explore the city and get around while lowering my carbon footprint.”
“I have been able to learn about different industries and concepts through my abroad program, and am excited to see how I will be able to apply them in the future,” she said.
Advice for Future Scholars
Her advice to students interested in similar opportunities is to pursue work that genuinely excites them.
“It is important to get involved with work you are excited about and to gain experience whenever possible,” she said. “Regardless of what it is, if you do a project that you are excited about and connect it to your passions, interests and the specific opportunity you are applying for, you will be in a good position.”
Through the support of the DIS Green Scholarship and the guidance of Lehigh’s Office of International Affairs (OIA), Azzara is turning classroom learning into global impact — one sustainable solution at a time.