FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 24, 2025

HACU calls on USDA to restore the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program

SAN ANTONIO – The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities has urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture to reverse its suspension of the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program, which is open to all professionals, regardless of race, color, or national origin, and does not exclude anyone meeting the program's criteria.

The fellowship program has provided faculty and administrators at Hispanic-Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities opportunities to learn about USDA resources to strengthen institutional capacity in upgrading academic agriculture programs, research, and extension services for underserved populations.

The program’s Fellows share new knowledge and expertise with institution peers to enhance student preparation as the emerging agricultural workforce. The modest program funding is an exceptional return on investment for the nation which should be increased, not suspended.

Hindering the program is an exceptional risk to our country’s interests and security, given the current and pressing national priorities for increased expertise in the agricultural sector’s workforce and improved food production and safety. HACU will continue to press the USDA to restore funding of the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship program.

The suspension of the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship program poses a significant threat to our nation's interests and security. In light of the urgent need to strengthen the agricultural sector’s workforce and enhance food production and safety, this program is essential for advancing expertise in these critical areas. HACU remains committed to advocating for the restoration of funding for the Fellowship, recognizing its vital role in addressing these pressing national priorities.