The Cynthia Hayes Memorial Scholarship, presented by SAAFON and NSAC, honors the legacy of a visionary advocate for Black farmers and sustainable agriculture. This scholarship supports Black and Indigenous undergraduate and graduate students who are passionate about food justice, grassroots organizing, and equity in agriculture. This year, three recipients will each receive a $5,000 scholarship and be given opportunities to connect with leaders in sustainable agriculture and advocacy.
Scholarship Details
- Three scholarships awarded: one for a graduate student and two for undergraduate students
- Each recipient will receive $5,000
- Includes opportunities for engagement with sustainable agriculture leaders
- Honors the legacy of Cynthia Hayes, a pioneering leader in Black agricultural equity
Eligibility Criteria
- This scholarship is open to students who self-identify as Black and/or Indigenous
- Applications should be focused on sustainable agriculture and how it affects Black farmer communities, and food justice in the context of the United States
- Students should have an interest in grassroots organizing, movement building, or agricultural policy and a commitment to promoting racial equity in our food and farm system
- You must be a student in good standing (2.5 minimum GPA)
- PhD students are not eligible to apply
Application Process
- Visit the scholarship page on the SAAFON or NSAC website starting March 27th
- Complete the online application and submit all required materials
- Ensure all materials are submitted by the May 1st deadline
- Wait for notification and next steps for award disbursement and engagement opportunities
We encourage interested students to apply if they meet at least 75% of the qualifications. We also strongly encourage applications from students from working class backgrounds, women, nonbinary and gender-nonconforming students, disabled students, LGBTQ+ students, and those who are members of other marginalized communities.
