Trump Administration Reopens Scholarship Program Amid Outcry

FORT VALLEY, Ga. (AP) — In response to backlash from elected officials and the public, President Donald Trump’s administration announced on Tuesday that it has reopened the application process for the 1890 Scholars Program, a federal initiative supporting agricultural students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) like Fort Valley State University (FVSU).

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) suspended the program late last week, prompting concerns from U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., who described the decision as harmful to Georgia HBCU students. “The suspension is wrong and hurts our state,” Ossoff stated. “I urge the Trump administration to immediately reinstate this funding to ensure that Georgia HBCU students receive the support Congress directed to them.”

Following Ossoff’s public call to action, the USDA announced the reopening of the application process, allowing eligible students to apply through March 15. Established in 1992, the 1890 Scholars Program is a collaboration between the USDA and 19 historically Black land-grant universities, providing assistance for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.

Fort Valley State University, which serves approximately 2,900 students, benefited from this scholarship program, which covers full tuition and living costs. This year, FVSU’s in-state tuition is approximately $5,000, with housing rates ranging from $5,600 to $8,000.

The USDA explained that the application process was temporarily suspended during a review intended to ensure effective use of taxpayer resources. However, a USDA spokesperson clarified that the suspension did not affect the more than 300 scholars currently enrolled in the program.

Ossoff criticized the initial suspension, asserting that the 1890 Scholars Program represents a vital resource for HBCU students. “This program has been a lifeline for HBCU students in Georgia,” he said. He pledged to monitor the situation to ensure continued support for these educational opportunities.

Data from the USDA indicates that 94 scholarships were awarded nationally in fiscal year 2024, with 12 scholars at Fort Valley sponsored by five USDA agencies and nine states. Reports indicate that FVSU was promoting the program as recently as February 12.

U.S. Rep. David Scott, another Georgia Democrat, has introduced legislation aiming to permanently extend federal scholarship funding for students pursuing degrees in food and agriculture at 1890 colleges and universities. His proposal seeks to allocate $25 million annually for this initiative, emphasizing the importance of a robust agricultural workforce to protect America’s food supply.

“The food and agriculture sector has a significant impact on everyday life for millions of Americans,” Scott asserted. “Maintaining a strong agriculture workforce is critical in protecting our food supply.”