The USDA has made available $33 million to support “capacity-building” efforts at Land-Grant universities.  The funding will support research, extension and education projects among 82 institutions including 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities falling within the 1890 Land-Grant University Act.

The funding will be provided through the National Institute of Food and Agriculture and is intended for faculty development, student recruitment and retention, curriculum design and educational support.  Funds will also be provided to purchase and install equipment for research.

Xochitl Torres Small, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, stated, “The work these universities will take on as a result of this funding have ripple effects far beyond the walls of the laboratories and classrooms.”  She added, “This investment is helping deliver real-life applicable solutions to make our food systems stronger while at the same time inspiring a next generation of students and scientists who will help us meet tomorrow’s agricultural challenges.”

The USDA has also announced 100 recipients of the National Scholars’ Program.  Students will receive full tuition, room and board and summer employment while pursuing a baccalaureate degree in agriculture, food science or a related academic discipline at one of 19 designated Historically Black Colleges and Universities including Tuskegee University.