I had the opportunity to attend the National College Attainment Network (NCAN)’s inaugural Leadership Summit in Washington, DC, last week in an official capacity: as the organization’s
Communications Intern. Although I have always been passionate about educational justice and legislative advocacy and I regularly visit the nation's capital, I have never had an experience quite like the Leadership Summit. I had the opportunity to
meet a diverse set of leaders and students and learned an immense amount about the current state of higher education in the US.
Through the panel discussions on higher education data and policy and by interviewing students who attended the Summit, I had the chance to speak with individuals who pushed for progress in our field through research and community organizing. I also observed
firsthand how data reveals the financial and racial disparities that still exist in higher education - and why access to supportive college environments matters so deeply for students.
I spent two days at the Leadership Summit in DC that I will never forget. I made connections with so many folx and will continue to maintain those relationships I created. Below are a few key takeaways from my experience:
Most people, regardless of political affiliation, care about higher education
The Summit hosted folx from across the political spectrum and panelists sometimes disagreed with each other on policy and solutions. However, a commonality they all shared was a passion for improving postsecondary education access and attainment. I met
and saw so many people who dedicated their lives to this field and the students they serve.
We must listen to student voices
On the first day of the Summit, I interviewed several students about their experiences and hopes for the future of higher education. A common theme emerged: students want organizers to expand their advocacy efforts and for decision-makers to genuinely
listen to student voices. As the primary stakeholders at colleges and universities, students have both the right and the insight to inform campus policies. They are the ones most directly impacted by changes in higher education, and their firsthand
experiences offer valuable perspectives on what truly supports student success and equity.
The Hill isn’t that scary
On the second day of the Summit, I visited Capitol Hill to present NCAN’s policy recommendations to staffers from both Democratic and Republican offices. I arrived expecting resistance - I thought our proposals might be dismissed as unrealistic. Instead,
I was met with openness and respect. Staffers from both sides of the aisle expressed genuine interest in higher education and a shared commitment to supporting students. I wasn’t alone in this effort; I had the encouragement of my fellow Summit attendees.
Together, we spoke from our lived experiences and clearly conveyed our passion for advocacy, equity, and justice.
I thank NCAN for the chance to attend this year’s Leadership Summit and connect with like-minded folx who understand the importance of the fight for postsecondary education access and attainment. I hope this will not be my last Summit experience!
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