The Department of Agriculture Monday welcomed five faculty and staff from tribal colleges and universities and one state land-grant university to learn about USDA.
The visitors are learning about research opportunities, programs, and services through The Tribal Fellowship. The program is part of USDA’s commitment to remove barriers to service for tribal nations. The Tribal Fellowship Program is administered by USDA’s Office of Tribal Relations. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Tribal colleges are anchors in their communities, and these fellowships enhance the collaborations between tribal nations and USDA.” The fellows will participate in intensive cross-training with USDA program leaders across the Department to identify areas for collaboration.
At a later date, select fellows will spend a week at a USDA Agricultural Research Service research facility to collaborate on research between the tribal colleges and USDA. On their return home, the fellows can share their insights and experiences with students and colleagues in their communities.