The Trump administration has reinstated applications for the USDA’s 1890 National Scholars Program after backlash over its sudden suspension. The scholarship, which supports students at historically Black universities studying agriculture, had been put on hold “pending further review,” but the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed that the review was completed and applications have reopened.
“The application process was temporarily suspended pending review to ensure that the program, its mission, and its metrics ensure the most efficient use of taxpayer resources,” a USDA spokesperson told The Hill. The department updated its website to reflect the change, allowing students to apply until March 15. Additionally, the USDA plans to host a public webinar to assist applicants. “OPPE will continue to support applicants and selected scholars as they matriculate through the program,” the spokesperson added.
The suspension of the program sparked immediate criticism, particularly from lawmakers advocating for HBCU funding. Rep. Alma Adams (D-N.C.), a founding member of the bipartisan HBCU caucus, welcomed the reversal. “I’m pleased the Secretary has lifted the suspension of and reopened the application for the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program,” Adams said. “This program has been in place since 1992, and I hope we can work together to address the real challenges and real opportunities for our 1890s and our HBCUs.”
Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) also condemned the initial decision, stating, “The Trump Administration should never have paused this funding in the first place.” He vowed to monitor any further attempts to alter funding for HBCU programs. “I will continue my oversight to ensure that Georgia HBCU students receive the support Congress directed to them,” he said.
The 1890 National Scholars Program, established in 1992, provides full tuition, room, and board to students pursuing degrees in agriculture, food, and natural resource sciences at 19 HBCUs nationwide. Last year, 94 students were awarded the scholarship. The suspension had raised concerns over the administration’s broader stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, as Trump has previously pushed to curtail federal programs tied to DEI efforts.
Link: The Hill
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