USDA empowers tribal higher education with 2024 Scholarships and Fellowships

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is championing equity and tribal workforce development through two educational initiatives. These programs aim to cultivate the next generation of agricultural professionals and forge closer ties with tribal higher education institutions. 

Expanding Horizons for Tribal Scholars 

The USDA 1994 Tribal Scholars Program has taken a significant step by providing comprehensive support, including full tuition, fees, books, a housing stipend, and paid workforce training, to eligible students pursuing degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or related fields at tribal colleges or universities.  

Notably, this year's update allows students to transition seamlessly from a two-year associate program to a four-year bachelor's degree program while continuing to receive USDA assistance. Upon meeting scholarship requirements, successful scholars may even secure permanent employment with USDA without the need for further competition.  

Eligible applicants include high school seniors, current full-time students at a 1994 land-grant tribal college or university, and recent TCU associate degree graduates. Applications for FY 2024 are due by December 1, 2023. 

Strengthening Tribal College Research 

The Terra Preta do Indio Tribal Faculty Fellowship Program aims to enhance the research capabilities of tribal colleges and universities (TCUs) while introducing faculty and staff to USDA programs and services. In June 2024, Faculty Fellows will embark on a week-long journey to Washington, D.C., where they will engage with USDA program leaders, explore collaboration opportunities, and gain insights into USDA resources.  

Subsequently, they will spend a second week at a USDA research facility aligned with their research interests. This year's research collaborations are set to take place with USDA's Agricultural Research Service, Forest Service, and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The Faculty Fellows return to their institutions armed with newfound knowledge to serve their communities and advance the research, education, and extension missions of tribal colleges. 

USDA and Tribal Colleges 

USDA maintains partnerships with 36 federally recognized tribal colleges and universities, designated as land-grant institutions through the Equity in Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994. These institutions are cultural hubs and vital centers of education and community development for tribal nations.

USDA's collaboration with tribal colleges encompasses scholarships, internships, fellowships, research initiatives, classroom education, and extension services, all designed to ensure equitable access to USDA programs and services.