LAWRENCE — University of Kansas School of Law student Shelby Norman has been selected as a recipient of the 2026-2027 Foundation Scholarship from the Foundation for Natural Resources and Energy Law.
Norman, a third-year law student from Lee’s Summit, Missouri, was one of 39 scholarship recipients recognized for their strong interest in natural resources and energy law. In addition to the financial award of $4,000, Norman receives free student membership to the foundation and an invitation to attend a future Special Institute with airfare, hotel and registration fees provided.
“My educational background in environmental geology serves as the foundation for my interests and dedication to this field of law,” Norman said. “During my time thus far at KU School of Law, I have had an opportunity to build on this foundation through courses such as environmental law, water law, administrative law, climate change law and policy, and renewable energy law and practice.”
Before attending KU Law, Norman earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental geology with a minor in biology from Northwest Missouri State University. She said studying environmental issues from a scientific perspective inspired her to pursue a legal career focused on environmental and energy issues.
Norman has also expanded her knowledge through her work as a staff editor for the Kansas Journal of Law & Public Policy as a research assistant for Robin Kundis Craig, Robert A. Schroeder Distinguished Professor of Law. During her second year of law school, she also attended a FNREL conference in Salt Lake City in 2025.
“This conference focused on the National Environmental Policy Act and was a phenomenal opportunity to learn about an important environmental statute and to network with others in the field,” Norman said.
Uma Outka, William R. Scott Law Professor, said Norman’s dedication to natural resources and environmental law distinguished her among a highly competitive group of applicants.
“Many students apply for FNREL scholarships each year,” Outka said. “Shelby undoubtedly stood out for her strong focus on natural resources and environmental law in her studies at KU Law, her academic success and her leadership within the school. We are extremely proud of Shelby for this much deserved recognition.”
Outka said Norman’s involvement at KU Law has prepared her well for a career in the field. In addition to pursuing the Environment, Energy and Natural Resources Law Certificate, Norman has served as a leader in the Energy and Environmental Law Society and previously received a travel scholarship to attend the 2025 Salt Lake City FNREL conference.
“Shelby’s successes and many contributions at KU Law are a foundation for a great career in natural resources law,” Outka said. “Whatever area she chooses to practice in, there is no doubt she will make a positive impact with her knowledge, commitment and professionalism.”
Norman said she is grateful for the scholarship as well as the support she has received from KU Law faculty throughout her legal education.
“Being selected as a recipient of a FNREL scholarship means a great deal to me both personally and professionally,” Norman said. “Environmental law is my passion, and it is an honor to be recognized by an organization such as FNREL. I am also excited to connect with other students, professors and attorneys working in this field.
“I am looking forward to my last year at KU Law with excitement as I finish up my coursework and look toward a fulfilling career in environmental and energy law,” she said. “I would also like to like to emphasize my gratitude to the faculty at KU Law who have provided support throughout this process, especially Professor Craig and Professor Outka. Their support has been essential in my success, and I am incredibly grateful.”
