The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced that it is now accepting applications for the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program. The program, which targets students at 1890 land-grant universities, has been designed to stimulate interest in pursuing careers within the food and agriculture sectors. The deadline for application submissions has been set for March 1, 2024.
The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program is open to eligible high school seniors entering their freshman year of college, as well as rising college sophomores and juniors. Aspiring scholars are encouraged to submit their applications through an online e-application process.
Lisa Ramirez, Director of USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), which administers the program, highlighted its importance in creating a talent pipeline for the agriculture sector. She said, “The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program helps to create a pipeline of skilled employees for USDA and the United States agriculture sector. By introducing young people to the array of needs and priorities in food, agriculture, and natural resources, the program supports USDA’s efforts to provide career opportunities for the next generation of leaders in food and agriculture.”
The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program is a partnership between the USDA and the 19 historically Black land-grant universities established under the Morrill Land Grand Act of 1890. Scholars accepted into the program receive full tuition, fees, books, and room and board. In addition, they gain practical experience through summer internships at the USDA.
Scholars pursue degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or related academic disciplines at one of the partnering 1890 universities. Upon successful completion of their degree requirements, scholars are eligible for noncompetitive conversion to a permanent appointment with the USDA.
In the 2023 cohort of the program, the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program awarded 100 scholarships. With applications now open for the next round, the USDA is looking forward to welcoming a new group of scholars dedicated to shaping the future of the U.S. food and agriculture industry.
Learn more and apply online at USDA 1890 National Scholars Program.
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