Colton William Roberts Scholarship for Geosciences
This scholarship was endowed in 2021 to honor the life of Colton William Roberts, who was a rising junior at The University of Texas at Dallas at the time of his passing. Colton was tragically taken from the world when his car was struck by a driver under the influence of drugs.
Colton was a devoted, enthusiastic and hard-working student who always supported his peers’ aspirations and dreams. His scholarship fund will allow him to contribute to his chosen field by providing tuition support to full-time undergraduate students in geosciences. In keeping with Colton’s values, a strong preference is given to students with an interest in environmental preservation and sustainability, sustainable use of water resources or ecosystem health and preservation.
“I have nothing but good memories of him. He was the kind of student you wish you could have a class full of.”
Siloa Willis, Teaching Assistant, geosciences department
Support the
Colton Roberts Scholarship Fund
To promote environmental health and conservation, please visit
giving.utdallas.edu/coltonroberts.
From an early age, Colton’s curiosity and love of the natural world was evident. Born in Austin, Texas, Colton had access to many green spaces and environmentally sensitive areas of beauty, which contributed to his delight in the outdoors. His exposure to geology began through attending the Denver mineral show as a young boy. Colton’s thoughtfulness and protective tendencies led to his initially campaigning for the environment in the 1st grade, when he raised over $600 for Earth Day. Around that time he developed a special fondness for birds and pollinators, especially bees, which he carried throughout his life.
Colton’s appreciation of the complex majesty of the planet and its inhabitants grew with him as he attended classes in environmental studies in high school and explored national parks, went skiing, backcountry hiking, sailing, and fishing. The interface of water, geology and ecosystem creation inspired him and was fostered by several years spent working summers at the Northport Youth Sailing School on Lake Michigan.
Colton remarked that he chose the path of geology because he found earth sciences and history interesting; it connected him to nature, and it connected him deeply to his body and its surroundings during the work. He found meaning and felt at home in those moments and was passionate about contributing to a worthy cause – the study, understanding and care of the Earth.
To contribute to the Colton William Roberts Scholarship for Geosciences, please visit giving.utdallas.edu/coltonroberts.
