S.C. State now accepting applications for agricultural scholarships

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Applications for S.C. State University’s Ag Innovation Scholarship Program, now in its third year, are being accepted through May 1.

The program is a partnership between the Orangeburg university’s 1890 Research & Extension arm and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, books, and room and board for exceptional students who show promise in the agriculture, food, fiber and human sciences industries.

“It is imperative that we invest in the next generation of leaders to keep up with the high demand for ag-related professionals,” Derrick Wise, state program leader for education, innovation and support, said in a news release. “The Ag Innovation Scholarship will educate and train our scholars, keeping them up-to-date with the latest trends and technology developments. Students will receive the tools to help them grow a bright future in the agriculture industry.”

Applicants must be S.C. residents admitted to S.C. State University as first-time freshmen or transfer students with less than 25 credit hours and a minimum GPA of 2.8. Students must also declare a major within the school’s College of Agribusiness and Family and Consumer Science.

The program’s first cohort, in 2020, included 24 scholarship recipients. They were joined by 27 more last year.

Scholars also receive professional development services, access to USDA internships, priority housing in a living/learning community and a complimentary laptop.

Scholarship funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture through a $2.45 million grant awarded to S.C. State 1890.

Applications are available online at 1890.info/ag_scholarship. For more information about the program, contact Wise at dwise5@scscu.edu.