The House Committee on Agriculture advanced an amendment on Mar. 17 to rename the 1890 National Scholars Program in honor of Representative David Scott as part of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.
The renaming recognizes Scott's contributions to agricultural education and his advocacy for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The amendment was introduced by Chairman Glenn "GT" Thompson and received broad support from committee members, passing by a voice vote.
"Empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders is a critical part of the farm bill, and I am proud to support the 1890 scholarship program in the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026," Chairman Thompson said. "There has been no greater champion of this scholarship program than Rep. David Scott, a graduate of an 1890 land-grant institution and the former chairman of the ag committee. It was only right to introduce an amendment to the farm bill that renamed this important scholarship program after Mr. Scott, its most steadfast advocate in Congress."
Representative Austin Scott also voiced his support for the measure: "Chairman David Scott has been a longtime friend and colleague. The State of Georgia has benefited from his work on many issues, and in particular his work on behalf of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. I am proud to serve with him on the House Committee on Agriculture and am proud to support this well-deserved honor. Naming the 1890 Scholarship program after Chairman David Scott not only honors his years of service, but cements his legacy as a champion of HBCUs in Congress."
The Farm, Food, and National Security Act provides increased support for historically black land-grant universities established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890—known as "1890 institutions." There are currently nineteen such institutions across the country that focus on educating future leaders in agriculture.
The House Committee on Agriculture plays a significant role in shaping federal policy related to nutrition programs that enhance access to nutritious foods according to its official website. The committee is also recognized for its oversight in financial regulations benefiting agriculture according to its official website, aligns with Republican members according to its official website, supervises federal initiatives fostering innovation within production agriculture according to its official website, addresses agricultural concerns across multiple states according to its official website, and influences legislation supporting climate-smart solutions for farmers and ranchers according to its official website.
Under provisions included in this year's farm bill, the scholarship will be officially renamed as the David A. Scott Scholarship Program for Students at 1890 Institutions.
