By Louisa Woodhouse, Senior Associate, Policy and Advocacy
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In just a few short weeks, the National College Attainment Network’s (NCAN’s) premier policy and advocacy eventreturns to our nation’s capital! Join us at the 2026 Leadership Summit onApril 7 and 8 to engage in thought leadership with NCAN’s robust college access and advocacy network, learn from experts about timely policy
topics shaping postsecondary education, and make your voice heard about the issues impacting your students and communities.
We’re excited to announce that the 2026 Leadership Summit is now open to non-members. Register today!
Last year, our network convened in DC to build relationships, elevate student voices, and educate Members of Congress on the importance of protecting and funding the Pell Grant. Now, we must continue that momentum. Recent Congressional Budget Office
projections show that Pell is on track for a funding shortfall if Congress does not act before September 30. Decisions made in the months ahead
will shape the future of the grant for years to come, including those of the 7 million students who rely on Pell funding annually. This is a critical juncture for the Pell Grant, and protecting and strengthening the program requires a broad, united coalition.
In addition to engaging in advocacy, Summit attendees will hear from experts about relevant and timely policy topics on panels including the Future of Pell, Communicating the Cost and Value of Higher Education, and Advocacy in Action. The event will feature
intentional networking time, both for state teams, and for executive leadership at the Executive Leadership Retreat.
The agenda, speakers list, and other Q&A can be found here. Please reach out to Louisa Woodhouse (woodhouse@ncan.org), NCAN’s Senior Associate, Policy and
Advocacy, with any questions. We look forward to seeing you and your students at the Summit!
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