A Professor's Journey into Agriculture Opportunities
Biology Professor at Indiana University Northwest Boosts Agricultural Opportunities
Jenny Fisher, a biology professor at Indiana University Northwest (IUN), has been selected for a prestigious fellowship with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The E. Kika De La Garza Science Fellowship aims to enhance agricultural opportunities and support Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) like IUN.
A Path to Opportunity
Fisher discovered this opportunity last fall through a former USDA employee. She applied in March and was delighted to learn of her selection in May. The fellowship was initially delayed due to government funding changes but was later reinstated, much to Fisher's relief.
The E. Kika De La Garza Program
The program offers three types of fellowships:
- Education
- High School Education
- Science
Named after former U.S. Rep. Eligio "Kika" de La Garza of Texas, the fellowship focuses on:
- Professional Development
- Workforce Development
- Exposing faculty, staff, and students to agricultural opportunities
IUN as a Hispanic-Serving Institution
IUN has been designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) since 2020, with about 30% of its students being Hispanic or Latino. This designation opens up more grant funding and opportunities for the university.
Fisher's Journey and Impact
Through the fellowship, Fisher has traveled to Washington, D.C., and Columbus to meet with USDA officials and collaborate in the department's Agricultural Research Service.
She has also connected with other educators in the program, which she finds invaluable as she plans for the upcoming school year. Fisher hopes to show her students the various career and internship opportunities available through the USDA and to help them appreciate the complexity and importance of agriculture in their lives.
A Broader Perspective on Agriculture
Fisher emphasizes that agriculture is more than just farming. It touches almost every aspect of daily life, and there are many facets to consider. She teaches her students about the intricacies of agriculture and how it impacts their lives.