On Monday, January 15, we celebrate the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Day of Service by reflecting upon our commitment and shared history towards advancing civil rights for all Americans.

Dr. King was a remarkable visionary and an unwavering advocate for equality, justice and civil rights. On this day, we commemorate the universal, unconditional love, forgiveness and nonviolence that empowered his revolutionary spirit. We pay tribute as well to the timeless values he taught through his example: the values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility and service that so radiantly defined his character and empowered his leadership. His courageous actions, inspiring speeches, and peaceful protests were instrumental in challenging the status quo and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.

Dr. King’s teachings and principles continue to resonate with us. His legacy serves as a reminder of the progress we have made and the work that still lies ahead.

At OPPE and across USDA, we commit to carry forward Dr. King's legacy by creating opportunities for all people to live up to their full potential, and by fostering an environment that values diversity, promotes inclusivity, and upholds the principles of equality and justice for all. Let us all honor Dr. King's legacy by working toward a more just and equitable society where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of race, ability, religion, or background.

Thank you for your partnership and collaboration. Together, we can honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and create a brighter future for all.

USDA Accepting Applications to the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program

The application window for the 2024 scholarship program opened on December 15! This Program provides educational and career opportunities for students attending 1890 land-grant universities. The scholarship provides full tuition, fees, books, room and board to students pursuing degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or related academic disciplines. The scholarship may also include work experience at USDA. Be sure to check the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program page for details.

USDA 1890 National Scholar Has Permanent Position at NRCS

California native Arionne Patterson was awarded an 1890 National Scholarship in 2016. She credits the scholarship and the positive influence of working with her USDA liaison at Prairie View A&M University as being influential in her career development. Today, she works for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Davis, California as a management analyst who oversees the coordination of students in the state’s Pathways internship program. She is also the Black Special Emphasis Program Manager for the agency.

USDA Accepting Applications for 2024 E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program 

USDA is accepting applications for the 2024 USDA E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program through March 4, 2024. This program offers faculty and staff from Hispanic-Serving Institutions the opportunity to work collaboratively with USDA to gain insight and understanding of the federal government. Fellows receive access to long-term collaboration opportunities with USDA agencies, and then share what they have learned with students and colleagues at their home institutions and in their communities.

Join us on January 31 for a webinar overviewing the application process.

Boots to Business Reboot for Farmers and Ranchers

USDA will partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration to present the online Boots to Business workshop for veterans, service members and military spouses on January 22, 2024. In this full-day webinar, attendees will learn about agriculture-based business ownership and the key steps for evaluating business concepts, plus the foundational knowledge needed to develop a business plan.

USDA Liaison Larry Hartsfield

Larry Hartsfield has served as the USDA liaison at North Carolina A&T State University for over 18 years. In this role he has recruited over 90 students to the USDA 1890 Scholars Program and helped students secure employment at USDA. He strengthens the partnership between USDA and the university by not only increasing the presence of USDA on campus but also in the local community. His efforts have enhanced overall communications between the university, USDA and North Carolina community-based organizations.

Prior to that, Hartsfield worked with USDA Rural Development, formerly the Farmers Home Administration, in a variety of roles including assistant county supervisor, county supervisor and rural development specialist. He started his USDA career as a student trainee and has been working with USDA for over 36 years.     

A native of Louisburg, North Carolina, Hartsfield assisted his uncle in his small farm operation growing tobacco, corn and soybeans and raising pasture hogs. He was an active member of his local high school Future Farmers of America chapter. He attended North Carolina Agricultural and Technical and State University and received his B.S. in agricultural education.