WASHINGTON, May 24, 2019 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the selection of 18 faculty and staff from Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) across the nation as 2019 E. Kika De La Garza Fellows. This summer fellowship program offers first-hand experiences in policymaking and research at USDA and other federal agencies.

“We are delighted to welcome the 2019 class of the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program,” said Mike Beatty, Acting Director for the Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement. “These fellows represent an opportunity for USDA to empower and engage the next generation of agricultural professionals.”

The fellowships, awarded yearly since 1998, recognize highly accomplished staff and faculty at Hispanic-Serving Institutions. Fellows are selected based on the compatibility of their interests with USDA mission areas, as well as the value their experiences will add to their institutions' educational capacities.