March 10, 2025

USDA reinstates E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has reinstated the E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) Fellowship Program, a longstanding fellowship that connects faculty and administrators at Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) with USDA resources to strengthen academic programs, research, and extension services in agriculture. Applications for the USDA E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program will be accepted through March 19, 2025.

USDA will also host a webinar on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. EST, featuring more information about the program, eligibility, and the selection process. Click here to register.

HACU is grateful to our membership, allies, and congressional champions who raised the alarm on the importance of this program. Your advocacy ensured the EKDLG Fellowship remains available to HSIs, supporting the pipeline of future agricultural leaders. The program’s suspension posed a risk to workforce development at a time when investment in food production and security is essential.

You can read HACU’s call to action here and the letter from members of Congress here. HACU will continue working with USDA to protect and expand this program to better serve our HSIs and students.

For more information, contact HACU Government Relations at dcgr@hacu.net.