top of page

The FOCCE Scholarship supports students and early-career professionals pursuing careers in carbon, forestry, agriculture, and extension outreach. Awardees must complete approved training and develop an original educational product, program, or event. Funds may be used as a stipend for creating the educational initiative and for travel. Scholars will also receive mentorship from an assigned Extension professional.

FOCCE Scholars Program

Scholarship Details:

Sponsors: Penn State University, Tuskegee University, USDA Southeast Climate Hub

Scholarship Period: February–May 2026

Application Window: February 1–April 1, 2026

Award Amount: $500–$1,500

Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students, and early professionals (1–2 years into their careers) in carbon, agriculture, natural resources, atmospheric sciences, forestry, or related fields.

Penn State University, Tuskegee University, USDA Southeast Climate Hub

Application Deadline: April 1, 2026

Required Activities 

FOCCE Online Educator Training:

  • Complete by April 20, 2026 (10 hours across 10 asynchronous modules; comprehension checks required). 

​

Educational Product Development:

  • Scholars are to design and deliver an educational product involving one or more of the following topics: carbon, agriculture, natural resources, atmospheric sciences, forestry, and/or related fields. Products may include an extension talk, articles, or other resources and will be distributed via the FOCCE program.

​

Select one or both of the following in-person activities:
Broadening Extension Through Student Training Program (State College, PA – May 26–29, 2026):

A weeklong professional development program (34 hours). Scholarship funds may be used to travel to this event.

​

Forest Carbon Pathways Workshop (Tuskegee, AL – April 26–28, 2026):
A 3‑day workshop covering forest carbon markets, landowner revenue opportunities, and teaching strategies. Scholarship funds may be used to travel to this event.
 

How to Apply:

Submit a letter of interest that includes:

  • Your background, education, and relevant experience

  • Why are you interested in extension/education

  • Your goals for participating in the FOCCE scholars program 

  • The type of educational resources you would like to develop

  • Whether you need funds in advance (instead of reimbursement)

 

Also include:

  • At least one professional reference or academic advisor

  • Your resume

  • Submit materials through the FOCCE Scholarship Form

​

Use the link below to fill out the application form and submit your letter of reference!

Still have some Questions?

To learn more, please attend one of the following orientation webinars:

Contact: Sarah Widderich at srw5841@psu.edu

bottom of page