A new memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been signed between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Council of 1890 University Presidents, reinforcing the role of historically Black land-grant universities such as Kentucky State University in education, research, and community outreach.
The agreement, finalized on March 5, aims to enhance federal collaboration with 19 institutions established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890. This act expanded America’s land-grant university system to include historically Black colleges and universities dedicated to public service through teaching and research.
At Kentucky State University, these efforts are reflected in programs that reach communities across the state. The Cooperative Extension program serves over 30,000 Kentuckians annually and provides technical support to more than 1,000 small-scale farmers. Additionally, more than $5 million has been distributed through the Small-Scale Farm Grant Program across most counties in Kentucky.
One recent initiative is a hay testing laboratory launched in May 2025 at the Barren County Cooperative Extension office. In its first eight months, it processed nearly 700 samples from over 120 producers in 26 counties. The lab offers free analysis and interpretation services aimed at improving forage quality for livestock producers.
Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, president of Kentucky State University, said: “One hundred and thirty-five years after the Second Morrill Act affirmed the importance of institutions like Kentucky State University, this MOU is an important federal recognition of what 1890 land-grant universities have long demonstrated through their work.”
He continued: “At Kentucky State, that work takes the form of education that expands opportunity, research that addresses real-world challenges, and Cooperative Extension that delivers practical value across the Commonwealth by supporting farmers and small producers, preparing students for high-demand careers, and advancing innovation in agriculture, environmental stewardship, and community health.”
Federal support for these initiatives continues with a recent USDA award of $1.7 million in Capacity Building Grants to Kentucky State University. These funds will back four projects focused on specialty crop production and marketing; recruitment for agricultural studies through summer programs; workforce readiness training; and strengthening data skills among agricultural science students.
Dr. Marcus Bernard, dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources at Kentucky State University said: “This recognition affirms the importance of the 1890 land-grant model because it is built around results.” He added: “Whether it is free hay testing and interpretation for producers, research that strengthens food safety and environmental stewardship, new workforce-aligned degree programs or partnerships that turn Kentucky-grown innovation into market opportunity…Kentucky State is showing how land-grant institutions translate research, education, and outreach into public value far beyond campus.”
Under terms outlined by the MOU, USDA will work with member universities on recruiting students for careers related to food systems and natural resources; expanding institutional capacity; providing technical assistance; increasing regional support; and maintaining communication via a joint task force.
