The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has suspended its 1890 Scholars Program, which has been instrumental for students from underserved and rural communities attending historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The decision to pause the program follows broader funding measures enacted by the Trump administration and has raised significant concerns among educators, lawmakers, and affected students.
The USDA confirmed the suspension on its website, stating it was "suspended pending review." This scholarship initiative, started in 1992, is aimed at enhancing the representation of underrepresented students within agriculture programs at nationally designated land-grant institutions. These institutions are key to providing education and resources aimed at fostering agricultural science and related studies.
Specifically, the 1890 Scholars Program offers full tuition and fees, along with room and board, to students who meet eligibility requirements, including a GPA of 3.0 or greater and demonstrated involvement in leadership and community service. The program typically supports students enrolled at 19 universities with historical ties to the land-grant system established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890.
Prior to the suspension, the USDA allocated $19.2 million for the 2024 fiscal year to fund scholarships for 94 students. Congressional representatives have not quietly accepted this abrupt halt. Members of the Congressional Black Caucus expressed criticism over the suspension, labeling it as detrimental to educational opportunities for students from marginalized backgrounds.
“For decades, this program has been pivotal to the success of the agriculture industry,” stated Yvette Clark, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. “We have championed this historic and bipartisan initiative to open doors to talented students from underserved communities.” She urged the Trump administration to reinstate funding by the approaching application deadline of March 1.
While the program’s suspension became widely reported recently, its exact timing remains unclear. Archived versions of the program's website indicated the suspension notice has been present since at least February 16. This period coincides with heightened scrutiny over federal spending on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across many sectors of the government.
According to USDA reports, there are now over 300 students participating in the program who would still be able to complete their studies, as stated by USDA spokespersons. “To be clear, every scholar — over 300 — irrespective of enrollment date, has been retained to finish their studies,” they asserted.
The program targets students attending the 1890 land grant institutions, which include well-regarded programs at Alabama A&M, Florida A&M, North Carolina A&T, and Tuskegee University, among others. The USDA notes the program as part of its broader commitment to serve underserved communities by providing educational paths for careers in agriculture and natural resources.
Alma Adams, Representative from North Carolina and co-chair of the congressional HBCU caucus, spoke against the suspension, characterizing it as, "a clear attack on an invaluable program." She pointed to this funding halt as another example of how systemic barriers have limited access to higher education for minority students.
The suspension aligns with broader tensions within the Trump administration's executive orders, which have rescinded various diversity and inclusion efforts across federal programs. Critics fear this signal may set back years of progress aimed at correcting historical inequities within the agricultural educational system.
This program's history and intent are significant to its advocacy groups and alumni. Its contributions to education, community service, and agricultural advancement cannot be understated. Many believe the suspension will primarily deny talented students opportunities to thrive and grow within these fields.
“This freeze on scholarships punishes talented students and undermines future growth within the agriculture sector,” Rep. Shontel Brown from Ohio remarked, encapsulating the disappointment felt by many.HBCU alumni and advocates are mobilizing to pressure leaders to address the current situation urgently.
With the March application deadline looming, stakeholders are pressing for immediate clarity on the program's future and the reinstatement of necessary funding. The continuation of the 1890 Scholars Program is seen as more than just funding; it is perceived as support for students who represent the next generation of leaders within the agricultural sector and beyond.
With so much at stake, the upcoming weeks will be pivotal for advocacy efforts surrounding the program. Students, educators, and lawmakers are watching closely, hoping for positive change and the reactivation of this historically significant educational initiative.