USDA Suspends Scholarship Program at Historically Black Colleges, Sparking Outcry

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has suspended the 1890 Scholars Program, a scholarship initiative designed to support students from rural and underserved backgrounds attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The USDA’s website now indicates that the program is “suspended pending further review.”

Program Overview: Established in 1992, the 1890 Scholars Program aimed to boost enrollment in agricultural studies at 19 historically Black land-grant universities.

These institutions, created following the Second Morrill Act of 1890, have been instrumental in advancing agricultural research and education for Black students.

In 2024, the USDA allocated $19.2 million to fund scholarships for 94 students, covering full tuition, room, and board.

The program is managed by USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE) and aims to increase the number of students from rural and underserved communities who study food, agriculture, natural resources, and other related sciences.

Concerns and Criticisms: The suspension has ignited controversy, raising concerns about its impact on HBCUs and marginalized students. Representative Alma Adams of North Carolina, co-chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus, has criticized the decision.

Adams described the move as “a clear attack on an invaluable program that makes higher education accessible for everybody.”

Critics fear this suspension aligns with broader efforts to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within federal agencies. Some suggest it may be tied to compliance with former President Trump’s executive orders that sought to eliminate diversity-focused programs.

Potential Implications: The USDA has not yet provided an official explanation for the suspension. This lack of clarity has fueled speculation and concern regarding the motives behind the decision.

The suspension could signal a shift in federal funding priorities, potentially impacting not only HBCUs but also other institutions serving underrepresented communities.

Universities affected: The 1890 land-grant universities that participate in the program include:

• Alabama A&M University

• Alcorn State University, Mississippi

• Central State University, Ohio

• Delaware State University

• Florida A&M University

• Fort Valley State University, Georgia

• Kentucky State University

• Langston University, Oklahoma

• Lincoln University, Missouri

• North Carolina A&T State University

• Prairie View A&M University, Texas

• South Carolina State University

• Southern University, Louisiana

• Tennessee State University

• Tuskegee University, Alabama

• University of Arkansas Pine Bluff

• University of Maryland Eastern Shore

• Virginia State University

• West Virginia State University

As the situation unfolds, lawmakers, educators, and advocacy groups are closely monitoring the issue.

The central question remains whether the suspension will promote equality within the education system or further exacerbate existing inequalities.

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