USDA Announces 2024 Class of National Scholars to Boost Diversity in Agriculture


The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the 2024 class of USDA 1890 National Scholars, awarding scholarships to over 90 students.

This initiative, aimed at developing a diverse new generation of food and agriculture professionals, is a collaboration between the USDA and the 19 historically Black land-grant universities established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890.

The program is administered by the USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE).

"The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program is an important pathway for careers in agriculture, nutrition, food, development—and at USDA," said OPPE Director Lisa Ramirez. "USDA is committed to fostering a more diverse workforce and to helping students be successful in their studies and in the workforce."

This week, the scholars participated in an orientation and swearing-in ceremony at USDA headquarters in Washington, D.C., joined by the presidents of several 1890 institutions.

The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program provides recipients with full tuition, fees, books, and room and board. 

Additionally, the program offers invaluable work experience through internships at USDA agencies and offices throughout the year.

Recipients must attend one of the 1890 universities and pursue degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or related academic disciplines.

The scholarships are available to high school seniors entering their freshman year of college as well as rising college sophomores and juniors.

The 2024 scholars will be placed at various USDA agencies, including the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Agricultural Research Service, Farm Service Agency, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Rural Development, U.S. Forest Service, and the Office of the Chief Financial Officer.

The USDA has a long-standing tradition of supporting historically Black universities, particularly the land-grant institutions established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890. 

These universities include Alabama A&M, Alcorn State University, Central State University, Delaware State University, Florida A&M University, Fort Valley State University, Kentucky State University, Langston University, Lincoln University, North Carolina A&T State University, Prairie View A&M University, South Carolina State University, Southern University and A&M College, Tennessee State University, Tuskegee University, University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Virginia State University, and West Virginia State University.

Under the Biden-Harris Administration, the USDA has been transforming America's food system with a focus on resilient local and regional food production, fair markets, access to healthy food, climate-smart practices, and equity. 

These efforts aim to build a more representative workforce and support rural America's infrastructure and clean energy capabilities.

For more information about the USDA's programs and initiatives, visit USDA.gov.