The Bourdakis Fund was established after the tragic death of Nicholas Bourdakis, who died in February 2001. He had just declared Geography his major. As a tribute to their son’s love for Geography, Nick’s parents decided to donate memorial contributions toward a student scholarship for undergraduates in the UCSB Geography Department. To quote Chancellor Yang: “The family’s thoughtful contribution, in memory of Nicholas, will provide valuable support for deserving undergraduate students from the Department of Geography. This memorial fund speaks eloquently of their love for Nick and their dedication to the goal of education he had for himself.”
The 2005-2006 recipient of the Nicholas Bourdakis Memorial Undergraduate Award is graduating senior Jeff Overlock. Nick Bourdakis will be remembered, particularly by Jeff and all other recipients of the award over the years. It is gratifying to see something so creative come out of such tragedy. Best wishes to Jeff, and our thanks, yet again, to Nick’s parents for their commitment and their generosity.
