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The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences is committed to providing students an academic community that nurtures diversity and recognizes the importance of providing access to multiple world views and cultural styles. To accomplish this goal, we provide significant programmatic support for students. This is delivered through several interwoven programs to create an encouraging and successful learning environment.
Diversity in Food and Natural Resources Scholarship (DFNRS)
This merit based program offers academically gifted students committed to 
creating greater diversity in CFANS a significant four-year scholarship award. Students maintain their award by continuing to demonstrate academic excellence and by participating in all program activities outlined below.
Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS)
MANRRS is a national student organization providing students with an expanded network and social, professional and career building opportunities. The organization holds an annual national conference with poster sessions, public speaking events and career/internship fair.
North Star STEM Alliance Grant Program
The CFANS Diversity Programs Office is offering students the opportunity to earn stipends and receive grant money through the North Star STEM Alliance. The mission of the North Star STEM Alliance is to broaden the participation of Minnesota's underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The University of Minnesota is one of the 18 universities, colleges, and organizations that make up the STEM Alliance. Target populations include African American, Hispanic/Latino, and Native American students pursuing baccalaureate degrees in the areas of STEM.
Dean’s Engaged Leaders Program (DELP)
This is an exciting, two-year opportunity for incoming first-year students who are committed to developing their potential to enhance our civic spaces through leadership, a commitment to diversity, and stewardship of the urban, rural, and natural environment.
American society and our local communities are becoming increasingly multicultural and diverse. This comes at a time when concerns about our cities, the food system, and environment continue to capture news headlines. The Dean’s Engaged Leadership Program provides a unique opportunity to explore these issues and fosters the development of leadership skills in academic, social, and public service contexts. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, real-world applications, and relationship building with faculty and community leaders. Features of the Dean’s Engaged Leadership Program include:
Freshman Year – Creating a Foundation
Sophomore Year – Making a Difference
Student Excellence in Academics and Multiculturalism (SEAM)
All incoming freshman diversity students are invited to participate in SEAM. Students (other than the DFNRS scholars) self-identify to register for three classes in common and other social opportunities. SEAM students register for a Freshman Seminar (Ways of Knowing and Science), Freshman Composition (Exploring Identify) and a Learning and Academic Skills (LASK) courses as a cohort.
Access To Success (ATS)
Access to Success is a one year academic support program devoted to enriching students’ academic experiences and equipping them to excel academically. Program participants benefit from a full range of services that enhance and support their academic success during the important first year of their college career.