This year marks an exciting milestone for the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) as we celebrate our 30th anniversary. Since our founding in 1995, NCAN has remained steadfast in its mission to close equity gaps and expand access to postsecondary
education for students across the nation. To honor this milestone, we've launched a new YouTube Shorts series featuring reflections from some of our founding members,
whose vision and leadership helped ignite a movement that has grown into a nationwide network.
We'll also celebrate this legacy in person at the 2025 NCAN National Conference, taking place September 8-10 in New Orleans, LA.
Register today to join more than 1,500 college access and success professionals as we reflect on three decades of progress
and chart the future of equitable postsecondary attainment.
The YouTube series features 10 short videos spotlighting six of our founding members, including:
In these videos, staff from founding members reflect on NCAN's evolution since 1995, the continued importance of our mission, and how being part of this community has strengthened their work.
Three overarching themes emerge across the testimonials: collaboration and community growth, student-first advocacy and impact, and lived experiences and leadership.
"The major changes I've seen are really around growth and impact," said Ellen Ridyard, Director of Collaborations and Partnerships at Philadelphia Education Fund. "It's been exciting to see NCAN change its focus from college access to college attainment
over time to really focus not on just exposure to college but also seeing students to and through college."
These reflections underscore NCAN's unwavering commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of race, ethnicity, income, or family background, have the opportunity to pursue and complete an affordable, high-quality postsecondary education.
Be A Part of Something Bigger
As we look ahead to the next 30 years, we invite you to help shape NCAN's future. Our strength lies in our member organizations – educators, community-based organizations, school districts,
postsecondary institutions, and more – who work collaboratively to develop student-centered solutions that drive postsecondary success.
Whether you're new to the field of a longtime advocate, joining NCAN connects you to a national network dedicated to breaking down barriers, sharing best practices, and empowering student
success.
Membership comes with plenty of benefits, including discounted registration to events like the 2025 NCAN National Conference.
Be sure to register by July 11 to take advantage of early bird pricing!
Together, we can ensure that every student – no matter their background – has the opportunity to succeed in college and beyond. Here's to the next 30 years of progress, partnership, and possibility.
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