The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) is thrilled to announce our 2026 Advisory Task Force!

Comprised of 26 innovative leaders from across the country in various sectors of college attainment, Advisory Task Force members range from direct student service in the secondary space to the corridors of higher education, as well as private scholarship foundations, nonprofit organizations and state agencies. NCAN created this space to bring our members together monthly to share ideas, solve problems, and recognize trends.

Task Force members provide NCAN with real time knowledge of the conditions, obstacles, and victories our members are experiencing across the nation. Their feedback is used to identify, vet, and curate the most relevant resources and professional development opportunities for all our members. We sincerely thank each of them for their dedication to students and the industry. 

Tiffany Anderson
Director of Postsecondary Readiness Programs
West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission
South Charleston, WV

In her role, Tiffany Anderson provides statewide leadership for college access and success initiatives through WV GEAR UP. In this role, she leads innovative, equity-focused programming that supports thousands of students and families across West Virginia as they navigate Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion, scholarship access, and the transition to postsecondary education. Anderson directs the WV GEAR UP Ambassador Program, the Family Action Network (FANs) webinar series, and multiple Parent Leadership Councils, all designed to elevate student voice and strengthen family engagement in college-going efforts.

With over two decades of experience spanning K12 education, higher education, mental health counseling, and workforce development, Anderson brings a unique, multidisciplinary perspective to college access work. Her background includes serving as a high school counselor and athletic director, a rehabilitation counselor with the WV Division of Rehabilitation Services, and a college professor, giving her comprehensive insight into the full education-to-workforce pipeline.

A passionate advocate for first-generation students and rural communities, Anderson is deeply committed to removing systemic barriers to postsecondary success through data-informed strategies, authentic partnerships, and family-centered engagement. Her leadership is driven by the belief that every student, regardless of background, deserves access to information, opportunity, and support needed to pursue meaningful postsecondary pathways. She is honored to contribute this experience to the NCAN Advisory Task Force in service of nationwide college access and completion efforts.

Daniel Barkowitz
AVP Student Financial Assistance & Employment 
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL

Daniel T. Barkowitz is the Assistant Vice President of Financial Assistance and Employment at the University of Miami. He has served 35 years in higher education institutions. Barkowitz has held various volunteer roles with the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), SASFAA (southern region), EASFAA (eastern region), FASFAA (Florida), and MASFAA (Massachusetts), including past president of SASFAA for 2024-25, past president of the Florida Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (FASFAA) and the inaugural chair of the NASFAA's Commission of the Certified Financial Aid Administrator (CFAA) program.

Barkowitz also served as the primary negotiator for financial aid administrators in the 2021 federal negotiated rulemaking. He holds NASFAA's Certified Financial Aid Administrator designation. Daniel is a recipient of FASFAA’s Distinguished Service Award, MASFAA's Presidential Award, two-time recipient of FASFAA’s President’s Recognition Award, two-time recipient of MIT's Dean of Undergraduate Education Infinite Mile Award, and the recipient of Florida College Access Network's (FCAN) Top Influencer Award. Barkowitz earned his bachelor's in history from Northeastern University and his master's in human resource education from Boston University. He earned a certificate in professional fundraising from Boston University. He is a published poet, musical theater actor, and tarot card designer and collector. Barkowitz has two adult children and an adorable fur baby.

Ryane Boyd
Associate Director of College Success
DC Prep
Washington, DC

With over 10 years of experience in college access and success work, Ryane Boyd is a dedicated student advocate who is passionate about helping students navigate the complexities of their postsecondary journeys. As the Associate Director of College Success at PrepNext, a DC Prep Alumni program, she leads the college success program initiatives to guide and ensure students reach their full potential.

Her commitment to this work is personal. As a first-generation college graduate, Boyd overcame her fair share of financial barriers throughout her own postsecondary experience. Through resilience and determination, she earned a bachelor’s in English studies from the University of Missouri at Columbia and a master’s in diversity and equity in education from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.

Boyd’s commitment to supporting underrepresented students began with her work with the College Advising Corps, where she served as a founding advisor in the St. Louis Public School District. She uses a data-driven, holistic, student-centered approach to support her students. Boyd combines her lived experiences with acquired knowledge to advocate for equitable education, empower students, and create inclusive spaces for them to thrive. 

Joshua Etienne
Vice President of Advising
uAspire
Boston, MA

As the Vice President of Advising at uAspire, Josh Etienne leads the strategic direction and quality assurance for all advising operations, ensuring that students receive exceptional support throughout the complex financial aid process. His leadership plays a crucial role in managing regional advising teams in New York City, the Bay Area, and Massachusetts, while also developing innovative solutions that address the changing needs of students and families.

In collaboration with the Chief Impact Officer, Etienne helps align the department's vision with uAspire's core mission of promoting economic mobility through education. His career is grounded in service and program development. Prior to his current role, Etienne gained valuable experience as a Massachusetts Promise Fellow at the Old Colony YMCA Social Services Division and as a program assistant at Northeastern University's Center of Community Service. He earned his bachelor’s from Morehouse College in political science, with a focus on international studies and economics, where he was proudly recognized as an Oprah Winfrey Scholar.

Fabián Garcia
Director of Admissions
Aims Community College
Greeley, CO

Fabián García is the Director of Admissions at Aims Community College, where he oversees recruitment, outreach, and other pre-collegiate initiatives. In addition to working at Aims, he has been involved in supporting historically underrepresented and underserved populations across northern Colorado in various capacities.

Informed by his lived experience as a first-generation college student, as well as his work with students, families, and advocacy groups across northern Colorado, García is passionate about addressing systemic barriers that prevent educational access and empowering those who seek to pursue post-secondary education. He received his master’s degree in higher education student affairs leadership and bachelor’s degree in Spanish from the University of Northern Colorado.

Tiffany Gusbeth
Vice President, Student Success Services
American Indian College Fund
Denver, CO

A proud citizen of the Northern Cheyenne Nation, Tiffany Gusbeth has spent 10 years at the American Indian College Fund dedicated to advancing Native student success. In her role, Gusbeth leads the development and implementation of comprehensive student support systems, including scholarships, college access, career readiness, student engagement, and strategic enrollment management. She also oversees the creation of a student and program management database to better serve Native students' needs. Gusbeth's leadership is guided by a deep commitment to ensuring that these initiatives are culturally relevant and respectful to the communities she serves.

As a first-generation college student, Gusbeth’s educational journey has been shaped by resilience and determination. Her experiences as a GED graduate and a student at a Tribal College or University (TCU) provide Gusbeth with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Native students navigating higher education. These experiences have fueled her passion for ensuring that Native students receive the support they need to succeed academically and culturally.

Tiffany Haddon
Success Program Manager 
Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars
Detroit, MI

Tiffany Haddon serves as a Success Program Manager at Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS). She is a proud alumna of the University of Akron where she received both her bachelor’s in family and child development and master’s in social work.

With over 10 years of experience in coaching, facilitation, and leadership development, Haddon oversees a team of success coaches who provide individualized guidance to high school and college students across Michigan, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to thrive academically and personally. Her leadership style blends authoritative clarity with transformational mentorship, emphasizing equity, belonging, and holistic student success.

She’s passionate about systems level change in higher education, particularly around Pell Grant policy, first-generation student outcomes, and community-based support models. Her work has helped students access more than $1.5 million in scholarships, complete their degrees, step into leadership roles, and build powerful networks that launch their futures.

Gerrick Hampton, Ed.D.
Associate Director for Student Affairs
South Carolina Commission on Higher Education. 
Columbia, SC

Dr. Gerrick J. Hampton is the Associate Director for the Office of Student Affairs at the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (CHE). Hampton earned his bachelor’s and master’s of business administration from Winthrop University, and his doctorate at Nova Southeastern University. He currently manages the LIFE & SC HOPE Scholarship Programs, the Lottery Tuition Assistance program, and the South Carolina Residency Program. In addition, he also oversees the CHE College Access Programs: College Application Month, College Goal South Carolina and College Decision Day. Hampton has been with CHE for 14 years. His work in college access focuses on helping students identify institutions of higher education that may best suit their needs and accessing funding to assist with their education.

Patti Harris
Director
University of North Carolina System/GEAR UP North Carolina
Raleigh, NC

Patti B. Harris is the director of GEAR UP NC, a federally funded grant designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. Harris develops and oversees statewide programming and college access initiatives, builds and sustains relationships with national and local community partners to leverage support for GEAR UP related activities, and manages external partnerships to enhance student success at secondary and post-secondary levels. With over 15 years of experience in college access and higher education, starting in undergrad as a work-study student in financial aid, to serving as a college adviser to rural high school students, to becoming the first director of the NC State College Advising Corps, Harris remains committed to ensuring all students have the greatest opportunity to upward mobility.

A first-generation college student, Harris earned her master's in higher education administration from North Carolina State University and her bachelor’s degree in communication studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. 

Tessa Kratz
Senior Managing Director
KIPP Forward Postsecondary Success Collaborative
New York, NY

Tessa Kratz began her career as a first grade teacher in Los Angeles, CA. That experience, coupled with her involvement with a number of high-impact nonprofits, led her to pursue a career in education nonprofit management. After supporting the historic growth of Teach for America NYC as their campaign director, she jumped on the opportunity to help open KIPP NYC College Prep High School, first directing its design and operations, then creating and leading a nationally recognized college and career counseling program that guided 95% of seniors to enroll in college.

In 2018, Kratz took on her current role building the Postsecondary Success Collaborative, a  six year holistic postsecondary program which is on track to support over 10,000 alumni of KIPP, Achievement First, and other school networks to persist in and graduate from college and CTE programs and then transition to strong first jobs. Tessa holds a bachelor’s in psychology from Georgetown University and a master’s in public administration from Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs. During her spare time, you will likely find her on a sideline rooting on her two sports loving kids. 

Rachel Livingston
Chief Program Officer
Fulfillment Fund
Los Angeles, CA

Rachel Livingston’s 30-year career in education spans teaching, college counseling, and administration at the elementary, middle, and high school levels in the Los Angeles, CA area. In her current role, Livingston leads all programmatic activities, overseeing Fulfillment Fund’s College Access and College Success programs. Known for her data-driven approach to decision-making, she has built positive school cultures and developed strategies to help under-resourced students achieve academic success, pursue success in college and launch their careers.

A nationally recognized trainer, Livingston is passionate about educational equity and youth mental health as well as building positive and supportive workplace cultures. She has received acclaim for her leadership in college counseling across the Los Angeles Unified School District and several charter school networks.

Karen Lopez
Project Manager, Product Strategy
Common App
Arlington, VA

Karen Lopez serves as a Project Manager on the Product Strategy team at Common App, where she leads product and program initiatives that advance equitable postsecondary access for students nationwide. She played a key role in scaling national pilots into full program offerings, most notably Common App’s direct admissions program, which delivers proactive admission offers to first-generation and low- and middle-income students. Previously, Lopez managed national student and family engagement through Michelle Obama’s Reach Higher initiative, supporting nudging interventions that served underrepresented students.

Born in Sinaloa, Mexico, raised in Los Angeles, CA, and now a decade long resident of the Washington, DC area, she is a first-generation college graduate whose lived experiences and professional expertise shape her equity driven commitment to expanding postsecondary access and attainment. She works to strengthen intentionally designed pathways and systems that serve historically underserved students.

Lopez is a graduate of George Washington University, where she earned a bachelor’s in international affairs with a concentration in conflict resolution, and was part of the inaugural cohort of Cisneros Scholars at the Cisneros Hispanic Leadership Institute.

Katie Lovera
Assistant Director of College Advising
I Know I Can
Columbus, OH

Katie Lovera is a dynamic professional committed to creating inclusive, strategic, and data-driven solutions in higher education, with a proven track record of achieving recruitment goals and advancing diversity initiatives. She is passionate about working with high school students to fulfill their goal of achieving a college education. In her current role, Lovera serves as the Assistant Director of College Advising at I Know I Can, Ohio’s first college access program and a founding member of NCAN. Lovera holds a master’s in education in college student personnel as well as a bachelor's degree in political science, both from the University of Dayton. She has nearly two decades of progressive experience in enrollment management at both public and private universities as well as dual enrollment coordination for a public K-12 school district.

Pedrum Mardan
Director of College Guidance
Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America
New York, NY

With over 10 years of experience in college access and higher education, Pedrum Mardan has guided hundreds of students in developing their agency, leadership, and trajectories to and through college. Inspired by his own journey as the son of asylees, a community college transfer student, and a first-generation professional, his changemaking is rooted in a commitment to democratizing education, expanding equitable pathways, and cultivating the next generation of leaders.

Mardan currently serves as the Director of College Guidance at Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America (LEDA). He leads a transformative, fit-based counseling program for a yearly cohort of 100 young leaders from across the country that helps them gain access to colleges and universities that span the range of “rejectivity.” Prior to LEDA, he supported every aspect of New York University's Opportunity Programs, helping to review thousands of applications, prepare thoughtful recommendations for committee, and participate in on- and off-campus recruitment and outreach events.

He earned his bachelor's in literature with a concentration in world literature and cultural studies from University of California, Santa Cruz, and his master's in counseling and guidance: school and bilingual school counseling with an advanced certificate in LGBTQ+ health, education, and social services from New York University.

Gina Moraida
Associate, RGV FOCUS
Educate Texas
Harlingen, TX

Gina Moraida brings over a decade of expertise in college access and nonprofit work to her role as Associate, RGV FOCUS at Educate Texas. Passionate about helping students achieve their educational dreams, she equips Rio Grande Valley counselors and advisors with the financial aid training and resources they need to succeed. Moraida also supports TxCAN's mission by maintaining dynamic digital communication and assisting its leadership team in delivering impactful initiatives. Before joining Educate Texas, she was part of the College Advising Corps, spearheading mission-critical projects that enhanced student impact nationwide.

Outside of her professional life, you’ll find her planning unforgettable vacations for her travel clients or creating core memories with family and friends. Whether discovering new destinations or empowering communities, Moraida is driven by a commitment to growth, connection, and adventure.

Jennifer Murphy, Ph.D.
Vice President of Postsecondary Access and Attainment
Education Forward Arizona/AzCAN
Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Jennifer Murphy brings a thoughtful, student-centered perspective to her work, shaped by over 23 years of counseling and teaching experience across K12, community college, and university settings. As Vice President of Postsecondary Access and Attainment at Education Forward Arizona, she helps lead statewide efforts to strengthen and scale college and career readiness efforts. Her work focuses on expanding students’ access to education and training pathways beyond high school that ultimately support degree attainment, meaningful careers, and a stronger state economy.

In addition to her statewide role, Murphy teaches at Arizona State University as a faculty associate and serves as adjunct counseling faculty at Mesa Community College. She regularly shares her work and insights at local and national conferences, over 35 to date, and supports schools and organizations as a counseling and CCR consultant. She is committed to expanding opportunity, elevating advising practices, and ensuring every student has a clear, supported pathway to their postsecondary goals.

Debbie Nguyen
Executive Director
Alray Scholars Program
Boston, MA

Debbie Nguyen is the Executive Director of the Alray Scholars Program, a nonprofit organization with the mission of reducing barriers to degree attainment for returning adult college students in Boston, MA.

Prior to Alray Scholars Program, Nguyen was the Chief of Staff at Foster America, a national organization focused on improving the foster care system. She also has provided strategy consulting to nonprofits and foundations, designed and implemented college access and success programming for first-generation college students, and coached youth aging out of foster care on securing and maintaining employment. Outside of her full-time work, Nguyen volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boston Tax Help Coalition, and Girls Aspire. She also serves on the board of directors of local nonprofits Building Audacity and Root Cause. Nguyen is a proud alumna of Brockton Public Schools, Swarthmore College, and Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Bijal Parikh
Program Specialist for Four Year Partnerships
CollegeTracks/Success Program
Silver Spring, MD

As the Program Specialist for Four Year Partnerships at CollegeTracks, Bijal Parikh develops strategic partnerships with key personnel from major Maryland public and private universities as well as local businesses to support first generation, low-income and immigrant students’ college persistence, degree completion and career pathway goals. In her almost 20 years of experience as a social work program manager and director, she has specialized in developing and managing direct service programs to advance education equity in the most vulnerable communities.

Parikh hails from New York where she spent over 10 years in advertising and direct marketing before graduating from Columbia University with a master’s degree in social work. She has advocated for immigrant survivors of trafficking and abuse, supported transition planning for court involved youth aging out of the foster care system, implemented parenting programming for female inmates, and managed a wraparound support program for DC area high school students. When she is not advocating for first generation college students, she enjoys going on adventures, keeping up with pop culture with her three teenagers, and occasionally enjoying a quiet moment with a good book.

Reshaud Rich
Senior Director of Internships
Partnership for the Future
Glen Allen, VA

Reshaud Rich is the Senior Director of Internships at Partnership for the Future. He is responsible for leading holistic initiatives that support high achieving, low to moderate income high school students with workforce development and paid experiential learning. Rich’s professional experience in college access includes GEAR UP Virginia, University of Virginia Upward Bound, and AdviseVA.

He is passionate about student development, marginalized groups, and first-generation, limited income families. Rich's leisure activities include independently publishing books that promote continuous learning and intellectual growth among those that undervalue postsecondary education. He has also produced his own customized playing cards for sale.

As a Norfolk, VA native, Rich was a recipient of ACCESS College Foundation's services, an Upward Bound student, and military dependent. He earned a bachelor's from the University of Virginia, a post-baccalaureate from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a master's from Old Dominion University. He is a member of the first collegiate Black Greek letter organization, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Keri Rossi-D'entremont 
Senior Director of College Access and Success
Onward We Learn
Providence, RI

Keri Rossi-D’entremont serves as Senior Director of College Access and Success at Onward We Learn. In her role, she leads with vision and purpose, fostering collaboration across Onward’s high school and postsecondary programs to create a seamless journey for students, one that champions college readiness, access, and achievement. As an NCAN member, Rossi-D’entremont has contributed best practices in forming CBO and higher education partnerships, using data-driven strategies to optimize student success, and supporting students with learning differences.

A passionate advocate for equity in education, she also brings over 19 years of experience in public higher education, specializing in college advising, career counseling, and holistic support for students with disabilities, first-generation students, and students from historically marginalized identities. Her commitment is deeply personal: as a proud first-generation college graduate, Rossi-D’entremont earned both her bachelor’s and master’s in psychology from Rhode Island College. Today, she channels that experience into inspiring others to dream big, break barriers, and realize their potential.

Jackie Shannon
Scholarship Manager
Maine Community Foundation
Ellsworth, ME

Jackie Shannon is the Scholarship Manager with the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF), working with traditional and adult students looking to pursue higher education. MaineCF is the largest scholarship provider in Maine, with over 700 named scholarship funds and awarding nearly $4 million in scholarships each year.

Shannon earned her bachelor’s from the University of Maine at Presque Isle, and her master’s of public administration in nonprofit management from the University of Baltimore. Prior to working at MaineCF, Shannon provided staff training at a residential school for children with developmental disabilities.

Shannon lives in a very small town near the coast of Maine with her husband and teenage daughter, as well as an assortment of pets and farm animals. When she is not chauffeuring her daughter to her many social engagements and sporting events, she enjoys winter sports, spending time with her animals, reading, and gardening. 

Tana Sukauskas
Executive Director, Upper Midwest
AVID Center
Bismarck, ND

Tana Sukauskas is the Executive Director for AVID’s Upper Midwest area, which covers Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Iowa.

After earning her bachelor’s in secondary education from Minnesota State University Moorhead and her master’s in school counseling from Indiana University, she began her career as a high school English teacher in Bismarck, ND. Sukauskas became the district’s first AVID elective teacher and site coordinator, later advancing to district director before joining AVID Center.

As Executive Director, Sukauskas advances AVID’s mission by guiding teams toward data driven impact, shaping statewide education policy, and building strong partnerships so that educators and communities have expanded opportunities to connect and reach their potential. She is passionate about cultivating environments where all students can thrive, regardless of background, and believes in the power of education to unlock potential. Outside of work, she enjoys time with family, music, volleyball, and everyday laughter.

Brionna Taylor
College Access Specialist
Kansas City Public Schools
Kansas City, MO

A native of Santa Clarita, CA, and a first-generation college graduate, Brionna Taylor has personally experienced the transformative power of education, which drives her passion for helping students succeed. She began her academic journey at Los Angeles Southwest College and later earned her bachelor’s degree in business from Kansas State University in 2018. Taylor is currently pursuing her master’s degree in school counseling to further equip herself to guide students toward achieving their goals.

Being a College Access Specialist with Kansas City Public Schools, she serves low-income and underrepresented students as they navigate the college and career process. As someone who has walked this path herself, Taylor is deeply committed to making higher education accessible and equitable for all students. Every day, she strives to empower students to believe in their potential and take the necessary steps to achieve their goals.

Lakendra Thomas
Career Pathways Manager 
Birmingham Promise 
Birmingham, AL

Lakendra Thomas is a mission driven higher education and workforce development leader committed to expanding equity, access, and postsecondary success for students from under resourced communities. She serves as the Career Pathways Manager at Birmingham Promise, where she designs and leads a comprehensive support model that helps college graduates transition into meaningful careers with confidence and long-term stability. In this role, she oversees individualized coaching, employer engagement, and data-informed programming for recent graduates, including extended support for 5th- and 6th-year scholars navigating the final stages of degree completion.

Thomas works closely with higher education institutions, community organizations, and employer partners to build pathways that promote economic mobility and connect students to real opportunities. Her work centers on relationship building, intentional coaching, and creating systems that ensure students feel supported, prepared, and empowered to reach their goals.

Before joining the student success and nonprofit sector, Thomas taught 7th grade English and 11th and 12th grade college prep, where she piloted a postsecondary readiness program focused on academic skill building and college planning. Her background as an educator shapes her holistic, student centered approach.

BG Tucker
Executive Director
College Possible Minnesota
St. Paul, MN

A passionate advocate for educational equity, BG Tucker has dedicated her career to empowering students to achieve their college aspirations. Tucker 's journey in education began as a Teach for America corps member, teaching Spanish in Gary, IN. This experience ignited her passion for college access and success, leading her to become a founding college counselor at KIPP Academy Lynn Collegiate in Massachusetts.

In 2016, Tucker moved to London to pursue US admission counseling abroad. She moved her family back to Minnesota, where she served as Director of College and Career Counseling at Venture Academy. Building on her passion for student success, Tucker now serves as the Executive Director for College Possible Minnesota. Her extensive experience in program development, strategic planning, and team leadership has helped College Possible Minnesota support students across the state.

She holds a bachelor’s in Latin American Studies from Carleton College and an master's in education from the University of Minnesota. She resides in Minneapolis, MN, with her husband, Sam, and their two sons, Mac and Jack.

Carmen Veloria, Ph.D.
Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs 
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CT

Dr. Carmen Veloria is an Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at Central Connecticut State University. As a seasoned educator and administrator, she has a wealth of knowledge from working in the P-20 continuum as a college access administrator, professor, department chair and researcher. Veloria’s advocacy, research, writing, teaching, critical community service work and public speaking focuses on issues of race, ethnicity, and language usage with respect to youth, schools, and community.

Her most recent work focuses a multidisciplinary team approach to developing a strength-based practices toolkit that emphasizes notions of care and caring through a Latine lens. It includes background information, activity packets/ideas, and information to help practitioners across various educational settings use cultural, familiar, and gendered notions of cariño, cuentos/conocimientos y consejos (care, stories/ways of knowing, and advice) to uphold a culture of high expectations and accountability.

She holds a bachelor’s in political science from Central Connecticut State University, a master’s in education from Boston College, and a doctorate in language, literacy and culture from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

Read More:

• Pennsylvania Becomes 14th State to Pass Universal FAFSA Policy
  
• Check out NCAN's CBO + Higher Partnerships Resource Page!
• Member of the Month - January 2026: Kendra Strange

As we begin a new year, I am drawn to the idea of courage. I say courage rather than bravery, because bravery implies fearlessness. Courage, on the other hand, is what enables us to face adversity and continue moving forward, even when we are discouraged and exhausted.

Courage is one of the National College Attainment Network's (NCAN's) values for a reason; it takes courage to try and fix ingrained, inequitable systems, more so now than ever. Thankfully, finding courage is made easier by the example of our students who embody courage every day simply by taking the enormous step of being the first in their family to go to college. Students like Ravien Burns, a graduate of Dillard University; Lucas Estrada, a student at Loyola University of New Orleans; and Alyssa Delgado, an alumna of Delgado Community College, who all spoke so eloquently during the closing plenary at last year’s Conference about how important support from NCAN members was to get them to and through college.

When the students we serve show so much courage, the only option is to stand right beside them, no matter how challenging that might be.

In the face of government actions that say “you’re not welcome” and an onslaught of messages that college is not worth it, first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented minority students are choosing college, and doing so in record numbers.

Early data from the National Student Clearinghouse shows that enrollment is up almost 2.5%. Perhaps most importantly, we are seeing continued enrollment growth from underrepresented and low-income students. For example, students from neighborhoods with the lowest average income are up by almost 8%.

Students from families with the fewest resources know that the road to economic stability and security runs through college.

Enrollment increases do not happen in a vacuum. As our students display courage in showing up, we have worked hard to smooth the path for them.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process needed a lot of smoothing, and we can finally celebrate that FAFSA simplification is working the way we hoped!

Every NCAN member should be immensely proud of the collective work to help students navigate the past two years and of making 2025 an easier year for FAFSA completion.

After more than a decade of effort, the high school class of 2026 is on track for a record FAFSA completion rate. This year’s FAFSA tracker shows that the high school class of 2026 is 11 percent ahead of 2023, the last year FAFSA launched on time.

Increasing enrollment and record FAFSA completions undermine the idea that higher education is facing an enrollment cliff. There may be a declining supply of students from groups that colleges have previously relied on to fill their classes, but that should make colleges work harder to recruit and support the students that we serve. The need for colleges to think differently about recruitment and effective support is what Bill DeBaun focused on in his piece on this issue in US News and World.

Defending Pell from cuts this year means that recruitment efforts are supported by robust financial aid. The successful defense of Pell funding, along with FAFSA simplification, meant almost 700,000 more Pell eligible FAFSA applicants for the 2025-26 academic year: a 14% increase.

Finally, as we head into the new year, NCAN is working on long-term strategic planning to ensure that we have a vision for the future of the organization, our role in supporting you as our members and the students we all serve. Top of mind is how to continue effectively advocating for students and helping our members do the same.

In our planning, we will consider how to help members carefully and thoughtfully engage with new ideas in college access and advising, like AI and direct admissions. We also hope to shape the college value conversation—pulling it back from such negative territory—so our students get an accurate portrayal of the value of a college education.

It is so easy to let the urgent crowd out the important, even in the best of times, and we want to avoid that impulse. We also know how hard it is to find time for long-term planning and deep thinking when we—and all of you—are putting out a new fire every day.

Even as we fight the daily fires, we know that either in a mid-term course correction, or a new administration, new policy and practice ideas will be needed to ensure the students we serve get the support they need to succeed. And let’s face it; the higher education system was far from perfect. So, we want to take the time to engage in the long-term thinking needed to ground our work in what is effective, not just what we have available to put out the latest fire.

Where able, we encourage you all to think about what comes next and share those ideas with us. Part of thinking ahead includes considering how to support and elevate the great work going on at the state level, especially work led by our members.

Our virtual Member Townhall on February 12 and our Leadership Summit on April 7-8 are the perfect opportunities to share those ideas and get help translating them into effective messages for policymakers and the college access field.

I also want to thank the funders who make our work possible. We are deeply grateful for funders—long-time supporters and new—who make this work possible even as it feels the ground is shifting under our feet. I am also personally grateful for the advice, counsel, and support of NCAN’s Board of Directors. Board members’ contributions to our work are often unseen, but they make us better in more ways I can count.

Finally, we are so grateful to all of you. NCAN is its members, and we know just how hard you are working to help students and families navigate the road to college every day.

NCAN will continue to be a trusted source of information, training, and support for members. Once again, in 2025, you were challenged to keep the faith and do the hard work or heart work as my colleagues often say. And once again, you delivered. Thank you for your persistence and unwavering passion to achieve our shared missions towards equity in postsecondary attainment.

With Gratitude and Hope,

- Kim Cook, CEO

Read More:

• NCAN Staff Share Their 2026 Resolutions
• Five Things You Might Have Missed This Fall from NCAN
• NCAN Embarks on a Strategic Refresh to Guide Our Next Three Years

The new year is here, and with that comes optimistic thinking, including resolutions, as well as professional and personal goal-setting. The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) has also contributed to this new year’s tradition, as I’ve asked some of our staff what their resolutions are for 2026, which have been revealed below.

Bill DeBaun
Senior Director, Data and Strategic Initiatives

“I’ve got two resolutions for 2026, one is personal, I’d love to get my 5K time under 23 minutes consistently, and on the NCAN side, I’d love to learn some new data analysis languages like SQL or R to continue to expand how and where I can bring insights to NCAN members! Wishing all our members a very happy new year!”

Elizabeth Morgan
Chief External Relations Officer

“In 2026, I resolve to share more stories about the successes of the students that NCAN members support and why they believe postsecondary education is the right choice for their futures.”

Matthew Odom
Communications Manager

“I have two resolutions for 2026, one personal and one professional. Personally, I'd like to run a half-marathon, so I need to begin training for that. Professionally, I want to continue working to improve the NCAN member experience, particularly as it relates to our website and online presence.”

Dejanique Powell
Communications Intern

“My primary resolution is to dedicate more time to my craft as an artist and find more time to design personal works for myself aside from class projects. Another goal of mine is to save for my first apartment post-graduation!”

Simone Pringle
Program Associate

“I saw 12 comedy shows in 2025, definitely going to keep that going. I might join a Toastmasters club to improve my public speaking skills, and step into a few ballroom dancing classes!”

What are your goals and aspirations for the new year?

Read More:

• Five Things You Might Have Missed This Fall from NCAN
• NCAN Embarks on a Strategic Refresh to Guide Our Next Three Years
• One-on-One with Damon Jiggetts, New President & CEO of ACCESS College Foundation

Autumn is always a busy time for those in the college access and success field, and we at the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) have certainly been hard at work. Here are five NCAN updates you might have missed this fall.

NCAN Announces 2026 Leadership Summit

Our 2026 Leadership Summit offers a unique opportunity to engage in thought leadership with NCAN members from across the country, learn from experts about timely policy topics shaping postsecondary education, and make your voice heard about the issues impacting your students and communities. Register now to join us in Washington, DC, on April 7-8 as we deepen relationships among NCAN members, strengthen your policy knowledge and advocacy skillset, and drive federal policy change. Read more.

NCAN Launches Direct Admissions Best Practices Page

Direct admission policies simplify college admissions by offering students admission letters before they apply, based on their GPA, test scores, and coursework. Direct admission policies help students, including first-generation and low-income students, recognize their college potential and prevent them from undermatching. NCAN recommends that states waive application fees, streamline additional application processes, follow student data privacy laws, and involve student leaders in the process. Read more.

CBOs + Higher Ed Institutions Partner for Student Success

Partnering with community-based nonprofit college access and success organizations (CBOs for short) allows colleges and universities to easily reach more historically underrepresented prospective students who will also be more likely to enroll and complete a degree or credential. CBOs are a trusted resource for students and families new to the college search and enrollment process, including first-generation students, students of color, students from low-income backgrounds, rural students, students who are parents, and veterans. NCAN highlights partnerships with member CBOs such as Onward We Learn, College Beyond, Northern California College Promise Coalition, and Achieve Atlanta. Read more.

New NCAN Report Shows Public College Still Out of Reach for Many

Despite widespread recognition that postsecondary education is an important ladder to individual opportunity and workforce development, college remains financially out of reach for students across the country. A recent analysis from NCAN finds that students at public colleges and universities – once touted as low-cost options – still face significant unmet need. “This year’s findings underscore the importance of federal student aid, and specifically, direct-to-student funding, in helping students access and pay for higher education,” said NCAN’s CEO, Kim Cook. “We know what works: investing in need-based aid helps close these gaps and puts degrees within reach for students.” Read more.

NCAN Embarks on a Strategic Refresh to Guide Our Next Three Years

As we approach a pivotal chapter in NCAN's growth, we’re excited to share that we’ve officially launched a three-year strategic refresh process to define our direction for 2026–2029. The world of college access and success continues to evolve - policy shifts, student needs, and institutional landscapes are changing rapidly. To remain aligned with our mission and ensure that NCAN continues to lead with relevance and impact, it’s time to take a fresh look at our past, present, and future. This refresh isn’t just about updating a plan - it’s about listening, reflecting, and co-creating the roadmap that will guide how we serve our members, strengthen our network, and promote equitable college attainment in the years ahead. Read more.

Read More:

• One-on-One with Damon Jiggetts, New President & CEO of ACCESS College Foundation
• 2025 DCAN Conference Highlights: Building Pathways Through Trust and Collaboration
• Cheers to 30 Years: Highlights from NCAN’s 2025 National Conference

Reading time: Two minutes

As we approach a pivotal chapter in the National College Attainment Network's (NCAN) growth, we’re excited to share that we’ve officially launched a three-year strategic refresh process to define our direction for 2026–2029. The world of college access and success continues to evolve - policy shifts, student needs, and institutional landscapes are changing rapidly. To remain aligned with our mission and ensure that NCAN continues to lead with relevance and impact, it’s time to take a fresh look at our past, present, and future. This refresh isn’t just about updating a plan - it’s about listening, reflecting, and co-creating the roadmap that will guide how we serve our members, strengthen our network, and promote equitable college attainment in the years ahead.

“The landscape of postsecondary access and success is shifting rapidly,” said Kim Cook, NCAN’s CEO. “To continue leading with relevance and impact, we’re taking time to listen deeply, assess where we are, and co-create the next chapter of NCAN’s story with our staff, board, and members.”

A Rigorous and Inclusive Consultant Search

Earlier this year, we issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) inviting partners nationwide to help us lead this process. The response was impressive; more than 100 firms from across the country submitted proposals, showcasing their expertise and dedication to advancing equity in higher education. We sincerely thank every organization that applied. Each proposal demonstrated thoughtful approaches and innovative ideas, making the selection process both inspiring and highly competitive.

Partnering with Harley Consulting Group

Following a thorough review and interview process, we are excited to announce that Harley Consulting Group has been chosen as our partner to lead this strategic update. Harley Consulting Group offers deep expertise in organizational strategy, equity-centered facilitation, and nonprofit leadership development. Their team - Jacqueline Skapik, Jodie Semp Blaskey, and Michaela Gilliam - will work closely with NCAN’s staff, leadership, and board to facilitate an inclusive, data-informed process that gathers the voices and insights of our entire community. Together, we will examine emerging challenges and opportunities, align on common priorities, and develop a clear, actionable plan to advance NCAN.

What’s Next

The work is already underway, and we look forward to engaging our members and partners in the months ahead. By next summer, we plan to share the outcomes of this process: our refreshed strategic plan that will position NCAN for continued growth, innovation, and impact through 2029.

We’re grateful for everyone's partnership in NCAN’s mission and look forward to shaping our future together.

Read More:

• 2026 NCAN Advisory Task Force Application is Now Open!
• Cheers to 30 Years: Highlights from NCAN’s 2025 National Conference
• The Fight Forward Continues: NCAN's Year in Review

The National College Attainment Network's (NCAN) Advisory Task Force (ATF) is now accepting applications for 2026! These 25 dedicated NCAN members provide our organization with valuable feedback and insight over the course of the year. Members share effective practices, successes, and challenges that members are experiencing locally and nationwide. In this group, we develop a strong sense of community and transparency in which we value every individual's lived experience and honor confidentiality.

NCAN trusts ATF members as experts in the postsecondary access and attainment field. Their feedback informs some of our programming and professional development priorities, they vet recommended resources for practitioners and even review our annual Awards of Excellence nominations.

This group meets virtually every month for a one-year commitment beginning in January 2026, with an optional second year sign on. The ideal member will represent their organization and geographic location through their professional and personal lens. They will be willing to share their observations, opinions, and subject-matter expertise openly.

Some of our wonderful second year veterans on ATF chose to share their experiences. Thanks Andrea, Richard, Kayla and Brian!

Interested NCAN members are invited to apply or share this with other members in your network. The deadline to apply is November 4, 2025 at 11:59PM ET.

APPLY

Andrea Glenn
Director of Postsecondary and Community Engagement
Arizona Department of Education
Phoenix, AZ

Serving on the NCAN Advisory Task Force these last two years has been both an honor and a meaningful part of my professional journey. It has provided me a platform to share Arizona’s story while learning from the expertise of national leaders and practitioners, which has directly informed and elevated the work I do every day. The experience has strengthened my partnerships, expanded my perspective, and deepened my commitment to advancing postsecondary access opportunities for all students.

Richard Gonzalez
Assistant Commissioner of Adult Learners
Utah System of Higher Education
Salt Lake City, UT

 The NCAN Task Force is a shining example of what happens when professionals across states unite with a shared commitment to student success. It’s a space where college access professionals from across the country come together—not just to share best practices, but to truly support one another across state lines.

During challenging moments, like the new FAFSA rollout, the Task Force proved invaluable. Thanks to the real-time feedback and shared resources, our students, families, school counselors, and college access partners received timely, reliable news and support. Even those of us working at the state systems level without direct student contact benefited from real-time feedback that allowed us to adjust and improve programs swiftly.

I’m deeply grateful for the friendships, learning, and professional development this experience has offered. I will never forget my wonderful two-year experience with the NCAN Task Force. A heartfelt thank you to the NCAN Task Force leadership—you were consistently professional, organized, genuine, and responsive. You created space for honest dialogue, made room for growth, and made it fun! I always looked forward to the NCAN Task Force convenings.

I wholeheartedly encourage others to get involved. The Task Force is more than a network—it’s a community, and I’m proud to have been part of it.

Kayla Ritter Rickels
Senior Director, Postsecondary Leadership Coach
OneGoal
Newport, KY

Serving on NCAN’s Advisory Task Force has been a true community of practice for me over the past two years. It’s a space of both giving and receiving, where I can share insights from my own work in the field while also learning how colleagues across the country are tackling similar challenges.

As a more seasoned postsecondary access and attainment professional, I don’t always find opportunities to connect with peers who are wrestling with the same questions I am. The ATF has filled that gap, offering a space for thought partnership, fresh perspectives, and meaningful connections. It’s been an incredibly valuable part of my NCAN membership, and I encourage others to apply and experience the same. 

Brian Thomas
Director, Jackson Get2College Center
Woodward Hines Education Foundation (WHEF)
Jackson, MS

Two years ago, a colleague pushed me to apply for the NCAN ATF. I’m typically a silent, behind the scenes employee. I never thought I would enjoy the ATF and grow as professionally as I have. Monthly meetings allowed me to learn from & share with other college access professionals from all corners of the nation. I’ve made work & friendships with colleagues from New Hampshire to California. We shared the good work, the tough work, and all our dedication to the students. I have been able to share takeaways from the ATF with my colleagues across Mississippi. Being active within the ATF has allowed me to present on national webinars and at NCAN Conference. The past two years have been an overwhelmingly memorable experience. 

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Last week in New Orleans, LA, the National College Attainment Network’s (NCAN) 2025 National Conference, coinciding with the organization’s 30th anniversary, brought together nearly 1,500 leaders in college access and success - educators, practitioners, students, and advocates - all sharing one purpose: to move past incremental change toward systemic shifts in how students access, afford, and complete college. In the largest Conference NCAN has ever produced by headcount, attendees came together for three days of learning, networking, reflection, and celebration. Below, we break down this year’s highlights and events.

Pre-Conference

NCAN staff arrived in The Big Easy on September 7 for set-up and orientation and were joined by attendees for two of our pre-Conference events. The first session, “Family First: Strengthening Parent Engagement in a Successful Postsecondary Transition for Students with Learning Differences,” explored how practitioners can guide all students and their families – neurotypical and neurodivergent - through the often-misunderstood landscape of college accessibility. Participants examined current federal commitments under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), designed engagement plans to help families understand students’ rights and resources, and explored evidence-based frameworks to foster inclusive, proactive, and sustainable family engagement during this critical transition.

The second session, “When AI Is OK: Navigating the New Possibilities of AI-Assisted Advising,” focused on how college access and success organizations are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into advising, programming, and operations. From chatbots that support Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion to large language models generating personalized guidance, attendees explored real-world use cases, discussed ethical considerations, and considered how AI can extend - not replace - the work of caring adults. Both sessions provided interactive, hands-on opportunities to prepare participants for the evolving landscape of postsecondary support and set the stage for the three-day conference ahead.

Day One

The Conference officially kicked off on September 8 with remarks from NCAN CEO Kim Cook, NCAN Board President Catalina Cifuentes, and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell (D), who reflected on NCAN’s 30-year legacy and underlined higher education’s transformative power for communities long underserved. “Once again, this year, you were challenged to keep the faith and do the hard work, or heart work as my colleagues often say,” said Cook. “And once again, you delivered. Thank you for your persistence and unwavering passion to achieve our shared missions towards equity in postsecondary attainment.” Mayor Cantrell also presented NCAN with an official proclamation in recognition of the organization’s anniversary.

Following the keynote, the day progressed with concurrent sessions, including roundtable discussions on topics like K-12 practices, college and career success, and postsecondary access. Attendees reconvened in the main ballroom for lunch, during which the Latino Education Advancement Foundation, based in San Jose, CA, was presented with NCAN’s Member of the Year Award. This was followed immediately by a plenary discussion featuring Dr. Kim Hunter Reed, the Commissioner for Higher Education at the Louisiana Board of Regents, and NCAN Board Member and Partner at Bellwether Nick Lee, who discussed Reed’s work boosting educational attainment, bridging achievement gaps, and fostering prosperity in Louisiana.

The afternoon was filled with more concurrent programming, including a session from NCAN’s own Simone Pringle which highlighted how partnerships between community-based organizations (CBOs) and higher ed institutions can benefit underrepresented students, a session focused on advancing postsecondary access for rural students, and many more.

As long-time attendees know, no NCAN Conference is complete without a reception, and we pulled out all the stops for our 30th birthday party. In, as the grand marshal put it, “one of the biggest [second line parades] I’ve ever seen,” Kinfolk Brass Band led attendees in a parade from the Conference venue to the House of Blues New Orleans, where the opening reception took place. Participants enjoyed live music from local New Orleans band Rouge Krewe, food, and drinks, and NCAN staff came on stage to lead everyone in a “cheers to 30 years” followed by a confetti drop.

Day Two

Tuesday, September 9, began with what is fast becoming an NCAN Conference tradition: the fun run, which was led this year by NCAN’s Catherine Brown and Molly Rothschild. After breakfast, CoPilot , the National Student Clearinghouse, and College Board led demo sessions, while Black leaders and Black-led organizations hosted a conscious inclusion meet-up for networking and dialogue.

Tuesday’s morning’s plenary session featured:

• Dr. Xavier Cole, President, Loyola University of New Orleans
• Chibuzo Ezeigbo, Program Officer, Joyce Foundation
• Skye Perryman, President and CEO, Democracy Forward

Moderated by NCAN Board President Catalina Cifuentes, panelists unpacked the most pressing challenges confronting academic institutions today, including threats to access, opportunity, academic freedom, and student support. They shared powerful insights and real-world strategies aimed at defending the role higher education plays in social mobility and democratic engagement, from litigation and policy reform to public education campaigns and democratic engagement.

Other day two programming included roundtable discussions focused on data, policy, and postsecondary success, and sessions on supporting students with undiagnosed learning differences, career pathways for undocumented students, and boosting FAFSA completion.

At lunch, NCAN presented our Partner of the Year and Professional of the Year Awards to CareerSpring, based in Houston, TX, and Dr. Jorge Torres of the Compton Unified School District (Los Angeles, CA), respectively.

Lunch was immediately followed by an NCAN Conference favorite: our Lightning Talks. Ryan Fewins-Bliss, Executive Director at the Michigan College Access Network; Gaby Pacheco, President and CEO of TheDream.US; and Mia Gonzales Washington, Director of the New Orleans College and Career Attainment Network. These three leaders confronted the political and social forces shaping postsecondary attainment as well as shared courageous stories and strategies from the field.

The afternoon was dedicated to additional concurrent sessions which attendees could choose from, including:

• NCAN Presents - Beltway Buzz: Federal policy news and updates from the nation’s capital
• How Child Savings Accounts in California Are Expanding College Access and Equity: This session explored how CSAs (child savings accounts) are opening doors to postsecondary attainment, especially among low- and middle-income students

Day Three

The final day of #NCAN2025 began with three spotlight sessions focused on diverse topics: an update on the FAFSA from staff at the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA), how to incorporate labor market information into college and career advising, and the effects Hurricane Katrina had on students’ postsecondary opportunities in New Orleans.

At the closing plenary, moderator Stephanie Joncas, Social Impact Partnership Manager at Equitable, was joined by students Ravien Burns, a graduate of Dillard University (New Orleans, LA); Lucas Estrada, a student at Loyola University of New Orleans, and Alyssa Delgado, an alumna of Delgado Community College (New Orleans, LA). The discussion focused on the challenges these students were facing in their educational journeys, what keeps them going, and how programs and practitioners can help support their goals and keep other students moving forward in their postsecondary journeys.

NCAN would like to thank all our members, conference attendees, sponsors, exhibitors, staff, and vendors for making this year’s event a success! We know that many of you traveled far to participate, and we are grateful for your efforts. We’ll see you next year, October 5-7, for our 2026 National Conference in Las Vegas, NV.

Want to relive #NCAN2025? Check out the photos here.

All photos in this article are by Anthony LaMothe.

Read More:

• FSA Shares FAFSA Successes and Policy Updates at #NCAN2025
• The Fight Forward Continues: NCAN's Year in Review
• Founding NCAN Member CEO Bonnie Sutton Retires after 37 Years

Reading time: 16 minutes

In the last year, higher education and efforts to support truly equal access to it have become intensely politicized to the detriment of students and our nation’s future. While I mourn this situation, I am prouder than ever of the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) and our members nationwide. Time and time again this year, we have stood up for our students, especially students of color, students from low-income backgrounds, students who are first-generation college-goers, immigrant students, and others who face unfairly high hurdles in completing a postsecondary degree or credential. As we marked the 30th year since NCAN’s founding, we brought our collective wisdom, strength, and experience to bear to achieve outcomes no single one of us could have achieved alone.

In trying moments, I am reminded of two sustaining facts. First, backlash comes only in response to progress. Second, we are part of a long journey to create a country that fully reflects the founding ideals of liberty and equality for all and out of many, one. We undertake this work collectively and joyfully, even when it’s difficult, as you see reflected in the photo above of Bottom Line staff at NCAN’s 2024 National Conference.

Despite this year’s many serious challenges, I note two important, hard-won victories.

After the dysfunctional first year of the Better FAFSA technology platform, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opened for its second year in December 2024 greatly improved. In fact, despite opening two months later than usual, FAFSA completion rates for the high school class of 2025 rebounded to the 2023 level. This achievement is in large part due to the advocacy and persistence of NCAN members in identifying the Better FAFSA’s many early errors, your recommendations to fix them, and your determination to help students no matter what. Additionally, this remarkable turnaround sets the stage for the class of 2026 to reach an all-time FAFSA completion high by next summer, thanks to the reduced number of questions, streamlined processes, better user experience, improved technology, and the tremendous FAFSA awareness and completion support you offer to students.

Second, we protected federal student aid from massive budget cuts proposed by the president and US House of Representatives. Despite the negative political climate for higher education, NCAN helped achieve significant victories in the federal budget reconciliation legislation signed into law on July 4, 2025:

• maintaining current maximum Pell Grant credit eligibility requirements,
• providing $10.5 billion to avoid cuts to Pell Grant amounts, and
• maintaining the subsidized undergraduate federal student loan program.

Once again, NCAN member organizations and students were critical to these victories. Your work to educate policymakers about the vital importance of need-based financial aid helped to protect it while many other federal programs were cut severely. Regrettably, this legislation makes large reductions to other critical supports for low-income families to provide tax cuts for wealthy Americans and dramatically increases spending on immigration enforcement.

Finally, let’s be clear that despite negative (and often unreliable) survey responses and pessimistic hot takes in the media, data shows us that students still want college degrees. Fall 2024 enrollment for 18-year-olds was up despite the decrease in FAFSA completions. Common App reported a 13% increase in college applications this year by first-generation students and an 8% increase by those from ZIP codes below the median income. And graduation rates are up as well: Postsecondary completion rates hit a record high as of the 2023-24 academic year. Again, NCAN members can take a significant share of credit for supporting students to these new heights.

So let me say an immense thank-you to NCAN member organizations and supporters. We have pulled together this year to respond to almost unthinkable challenges, which will continue in the year ahead. You have told us you rely on NCAN to understand what news from Washington, DC, to pay attention to and how to respond. We are humbled and honored by your trust and will work to continue to earn it. Below I’m pleased to share additional highlights of 2024-25 below, and please also visit NCAN’s KPI Dashboard to see our progress “by the numbers.” Together, let’s enter the new school year with resolve and faith in our shared vision.

From FAFSA Fiasco to Smoother Sailing

NCAN members and students lived through a swing from highly negative to substantially positive FAFSA experiences during the last 12 months. The disastrous rollout of the 2024-25 FAFSA yielded confusion, wasted time, and far lower than average completion rates, even despite the extraordinary summer 2024 FAFSA completion efforts happening around the country. By August 2024, the high school class of 2024’s FAFSA completion rate ended down 9.1 percentage points, which represented a recovery compared to the 11.6 percentage point gap at the end of June. NCAN’s emergency national digital #DoTheFAFSA campaign, which ran from mid-May through August 2024, yielded an estimated 587,028 FAFSA submissions, representing 157% of our goal and a boost to summer completion efforts.

In June 2024, the US Department of Education (ED) brought in a new team to fix the existing FAFSA and work toward a much improved 2025-26 FAFSA. NCAN’s recommendations to and engagement with ED ramped up to help the new ED FAFSA team prioritize the necessary fixes and vet potential solutions. NCAN staff were in frequent contact with ED through the late summer and fall, including consulting on the 2025-26 cycle’s delayed opening. Several NCAN member organizations partnered with ED to conduct 2025-26 FAFSA beta testing.

After the November 2024 election, the incoming administration’s intended policy to deport as many undocumented individuals as possible represented a significant challenge. NCAN investigated the privacy protections for parents without Social Security numbers contributing to their student’s FAFSA. Regrettably, we determined that although the Higher Education Act prohibits the use of data for any purpose other than determining and awarding federal financial assistance, NCAN could not assure mixed-status students and families that data submitted to ED as part of the FAFSA process would continue to be protected. We encouraged anyone assisting mixed-status families who were contributing to a FAFSA for the first time, to share the potential risk and support them in deciding whether to file a FAFSA. This action was without precedent in NCAN history and met with a range of responses. NCAN stands by this guidance today, especially considering recent events related to undocumented individuals in the US.

FAFSA Drove NCAN’s Communications

Although 2024-25 did not surpass 2023-24 in terms of earned media, throughout the past year, FAFSA continued to drive NCAN’s prominent earned media mentions. NCAN staff spent significant time talking with reporters about FAFSA challenges, workarounds, completion initiatives, and eventual improvements. The examples below helped to amplify key messages to policymakers, educators, students and families.

• A NBC News story focused on the critical importance of sufficient financial aid to students’ college enrollment decisions.
• The Washington Post, USA Today, US News and World Report, NerdWallet, and other outlets covered the news that the 2025-26 FAFSA launch would also be delayed.
• The Washington Post editorial board wrote about the disappointing technological failure of the 2024-25 FAFSA and called on Congress to fix it: “Easing the FAFSA process is a worthy cause. If the Education Department needs more money to fix the system, lawmakers should find it.”
• The Associated Press covered how the botched FAFSA rollout negatively affected students’ enrollment plans.
• NPR reported on how late financial aid offers were making fall enrollment challenging for low-income students.
• The New York Times wrote about how to handle the delayed launch of the 2025-26 FAFSA.
• The Washington Post wrote about the launch of the 2025-26 FAFSA and initial reports that it was significantly improved from 2024-25.
• A Teen Vogue story discussed how the botched rollout of the new FAFSA hurt the students it was intended to help most: low-income students.

NCAN members were also prominent in the news about FAFSA.

• Inside Higher Ed covered Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority’s first-ever FAFSA completion telethon.
• Denver Scholarship Foundation was quoted in The Colorado Sun about the problems with the new FAFSA.
• US News and World Report featured The Institute for College Access and Success in a piece about how to complete FAFSA.
• OneGoal talked with Vox about how the national political situation is making students uncertain about affording college.
• CBS News interviewed the Southern California College Access Network about how the FAFSA was complicating college acceptances for high school seniors.

In sum, earned media helped us draw attention to the FAFSA problem, create urgency for ED to address it, and give students, families, and educators key information to keep FAFSA completion rates as high as possible.

Increased Member and Field Engagement

With the dramatic changes in FAFSA and the national policy environment during the last 12 months, the number of NCAN member organizations stayed relatively steady (544 compared to 565 in 2023-24), but we noted increased engagement on several fronts.

• 2024 NCAN National Conference attendance rose 9% from 2023, higher than our historical 6% annual average increase.
• In NCAN’s annual member survey, a historic 93% of respondents reported that “NCAN helped me do my job better.”
• Web site visitors were up 7% and reached our highest ever at an average of almost 31,000 unique individuals per month. This is more than double the number of just two years ago.
• We upgraded our annual Hill Day in Washington, DC, to a two-day Leadership Summit and Executive Retreat. The event was sold out and attracted an all-time high of more than 230 members and students. The expanded event gave us the opportunity to speak with policymakers from across the country about the need to provide more federal financial aid to students from low-income families at this time of rising college costs. Our members practiced how to tell their stories and share the impact that postsecondary education had on their lives. They heard from Congressional staff and policy experts about the current policy landscape and challenges facing Pell and other higher education funding. The summit was an excellent opportunity to deliver more timely content and create meaningful opportunities for our members to connect with one another more deeply with the needs and concerns of college access and success leaders at a critical time.

Continuing to deepen NCAN’s engagement with member cohorts was also a top priority. We added a new quarterly virtual peer exchange for CEOs of member organizations in order to better understand their priorities and challenges, especially in the current anti-equity environment. We upgraded our monthly programming for our existing member councils (thank you, Advisory Task Force, Policy Council, and State Pathways Partners) to better convey the most promising trends and understand their top concerns. We also launched an online Slack community where NCAN members can quickly ask questions and get answers from other members and NCAN staff. Areas of focus so far are FAFSA completion and policy, data and evaluation, “student-facing” efforts, and a “general” channel.

In terms of subject matter, NCAN led the way in developing, advancing, and sharing resources around a wide variety of topics:

• FAFSA completion workarounds and summer FAFSA completion strategies were critical in May-August 2024. NCAN once again launched a suite of resources in December 2024 for those assisting students with 2025-26 FAFSA completion.
• We delivered a series of resources on student mental wellness supported by the ECMC Foundation.
• Ascendium supported policy-focused work on justice-impacted learners.
• Members learned more about college access and success for students with learning differences via work supported by the Oak Foundation.
• NCAN increased understanding of effective partnerships between higher education institutions and community-based college access and success organizations (CBOs), supported by the Scheidel Foundation. NCAN released an analysis of more than 50 CBOs providing college success services and profiles of three CBOs, including Onward We Learn in Rhode Island.
• To increase understanding of effective strategies during K-12 years, we supported a group of members in developing and disseminating a framework of enabling conditions at the school district level for achieving better postsecondary outcomes.
• Because of NCAN’s strong commitment to increasing use of real-time student-level data, we also held a first-time convening of state-level agencies and nonprofits to explore how states can better deliver postsecondary outcomes data to their school districts.

At the state level, NCAN continued our work with 15 partner organizations to improve K-12-to-postsecondary pathways for students furthest from opportunity. Hot topics have included universal FAFSA and other state-level FAFSA completion strategies, direct admissions for high school students into college, and effective messaging to students and families to encourage postsecondary application and enrollment. We continued to share with state partner networks and agencies best practice around postsecondary outcomes data sharing. This effort is particularly timely due to the National Student Clearinghouse’s recent launch of StudentTracker 3.0, which makes it far easier for states and districts to obtain student-level postsecondary enrollment and completion data. We were delighted that some of NCAN’s state-level work was featured in the May 2025 journal of the National Association of State Boards of Education. This K-12-to-postsecondary pathways work was supported by the Gates Foundation.

NCAN also continued to support the field through several consulting projects. Our Senior Director of Consulting Colette Hadley assisted organizations such as the Hawaii Community Foundation, the Bloch Family Foundation (Kansas City, KS), Battle Creek (MI) Community Foundation, and the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation with projects ranging from supporting place-based college access networks and the creation of postsecondary community initiatives, to optimizing scholarship programs for equity and long-term impact.

Protecting Pell and Responding to Policy Uncertainty

The change in presidential administration and Congressional leadership have flipped NCAN’s policy work from advancing policies to increase federal aid for low-income students to defending existing levels. The administration’s attempts to end lawful university or nonprofit programs that may take a student’s race into consideration also threaten NCAN member organizations and the proven support that many students need to access and complete higher education.

NCAN has responded quickly to this political landscape to help our members understand rumored and actual presidential executive orders, as exemplified by these blog posts:

• Breaking Down Trump’s Executive Actions
• Student and Parent Data Should Be Private; Chaos Only Hurts Access and Attainment
• Federal Funding Freeze: What Happens Next?
• Trump Administration Forbids Schools, Agencies from Considering Race in Programming and Operations
• Widespread Layoffs at ED Risk Uncertainty About Aid and Operating Disruption

NCAN’s 2025 Spring Institute theme was “Committed to Belonging and Opportunity” and featured two college presidents and three NCAN member leaders discussing their strategies in the current polarized environment. NCAN also convened calls for members whose federal grants were terminated or threatened so they could support and learn from one another.

Throughout, NCAN has emphasized the message that the stability of the federal financial aid system is paramount if higher education – our country’s greatest engine of economic and social mobility – is going to function. Additionally, the Pell Grant is the foundation upon which all other student aid is built, and this funding must remain available. We thank all our members, especially those in several key states, for educating policymakers about the case for federal student aid, which helped protect the Pell Grant and undergraduate subsidized loan program in the federal budget reconciliation legislation signed on July 4. Informative op-eds or news articles such as in Florida, Ohio, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Forbes, and TIME focused on the topic of the key role of Pell Grants in economic growth and their importance to opportunity for first-generation students.

Since January, NCAN has delivered several resources to help our members understand the new federal policy environment:

• Our new Federal Policy Action Center centralizes information about the various policy threats and makes it easy to find advocacy resources.
• We have increased the frequency of our Rapid Response Policy Team email update from occasional to weekly.
• In April, we released our annual “Pell Grants Left on the Table” analysis for the high school class of 2024, emphasizing the funding that states could access by helping more students complete the FAFSA.
• In September we also updated our yearly Growing Gap report on the number of public colleges and universities that are affordable to the average Pell Grant recipient, followed by a deeper dive on the Great Lakes states, thanks to support from the Joyce Foundation.

A few additional notable achievements on the policy front:

• In NCAN’s 2024 member survey, an all-time high of 80% of respondents reported engaging in at least one advocacy activity in the prior year.
• NCAN’s Rapid Response Policy Team group of members grew from 248 to 402 this year (62%).
• NCAN joined a lawsuit with 14 other nonprofit plaintiffs on behalf of our approximately 50 member organizations whose AmeriCorps grants were improperly terminated in April. On July 7, the judge granted a preliminary injunction in the case ordering the Corporation for National and Community service to reinstate and restore all AmeriCorps grants, subgrants, contracts and funding to all NCAN members and other plaintiffs.
• NCAN has been cited by several major news outlets regarding the harm the US House reconciliation bill could do through Pell Grant cuts and federal student loan changes, including The Washington Post, Washington Examiner, NPR, and NerdWallet.

NCAN’s Key Capacity Wins

In addition to programmatic and policy work, NCAN strives to continuously improve our operations, including finance, HR, technology, and governance. Most importantly, we are pleased to report that NCAN forecasts ending Fiscal Year 2025 with approximately $194,000 in positive net revenue from a $9.4 million budget, subject to revision in our upcoming annual audit. Below are a few other notable developments.

• We gratefully received additional grant support from the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation, Capital One, the Carnegie Corporation of New York, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Gates Foundation, The Kresge Foundation, and Trellis Foundation for various aspects of NCAN’s work.
• NCAN said goodbye to five outstanding board members (Steve Colón, Bottom Line; Adam Berg, AEM Corporation; Jamie Sears, UBS Americas; Candy Marshall, TheDream.US; and Dr. Sujuan Boutté, Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance).
• We welcomed five amazing new board members (Alison De Lucca, SoCalCAN; Jacob Fraire, ECMC Foundation; Nick Watson, Bloomberg Philanthropies; Chandra Scott, Alabama Possible; and Traci Rue White, PepsiCo).
• With financial support from an anonymous donor, NCAN selected a new association management system (AMS) to replace our current outdated technology and undertook the substantial planning needed to transition in early 2026. The AMS comprises NCAN’s member relationship management system, web site content management system, and mass email functionality. NCAN members can look forward to a significantly improved technology experience in the new year.
• We implemented a new budgeting platform to improve budget tracking and planning and prepared to shift from outsourced to in-house accounting.
• We navigated the retirement of longtime NCAN senior staff member MorraLee Keller, and she continued to assist us with FAFSA issue analysis on a part-time basis.
• We created a new staff position focused on digital learning and welcomed Molly Rothschild, who is expanding NCAN’s capacity on webinars and e-learning.
• On the HR front, NCAN continued staff professional development and inclusion initiatives and implemented new annual and mid-year review processes designed to mitigate potential bias and increase transparency.

Once again, thank you for your support of students and for being part of the NCAN community. In the world’s most diverse nation, providing opportunity and support to students who were historically barred from higher education is essential to our health, security and long-term prosperity. Especially in a challenging year, we are so much stronger together.

Read More:

• Founding NCAN Member CEO Bonnie Sutton Retires after 37 Years
• 30 Years, 10 Stories: Founding Members Reflect on NCAN’s Anniversary
• From Vision to Impact: NCAN's Founders Reflect on 30th Anniversary

In June, the ACCESS College Foundation in Norfolk, VA, honored its retiring CEO Bonnie Sutton (pictured above on the right) for a long and successful career dedicated to expanding postsecondary opportunity for students in South Hampton Roads and Northampton County. The National College Attainment Network's (NCAN) recently-retired Senior Director of Strategic Programming MorraLee Keller (pictured above on the left) attended and presented a resolution honoring Sutton from the NCAN Board of Directors.

Sutton began her career as an executive assistant with ACCESS when it was founded in 1988. She earned her bachelor's degree while working there and served as President and CEO for 25 years. During her tenure, ACCESS grew from assisting 307 students to more than 23,000 students annually. ACCESS has now reaches 28 middle schools, 30 high schools, and 14 postsecondary campuses. Sutton developed a strong gift for fundraising, and the organization's endowment now exceeds $83 million. Under her watch, ACCESS has been a leader among NCAN member programs with developing best practices, establishing on-campus student retention programs, maintaining a highly trained group of access advisors, implementing effective Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion strategies, and providing more than $16 million in renewable last-dollar scholarships.

"ACCESS College Foundation was one of nine original founding members of NCAN, and throughout the years Bonnie has been a visionary for expanding college access and success support to more communities," NCAN CEO Kim Cook said, "Bonnie will talk with anyone about how to start and develop a college access and success program, sharing strategies and resources. She has been a regular at the NCAN National Conference for almost 30 years and has been especially generous in sharing her fundraising expertise. In the Hampton Roads region, Bonnie has been a tireless advocate for underserved students and families, and her collaborative approach has built an extraordinary community commitment to helping more students pursue education after high school," Cook said. 

Along the way, Sutton also built a strong ACCESS team to carry on the work and continue to build on their years of accomplishments. We wish her a happy and healthy next phase of her journey!

Read More:

• Five Reasons to Attend the 2025 NCAN National Conference
• 30 Years, 10 Stories: Founding Members Reflect on NCAN’s Anniversary
• #NCAN2025: NOLA Members Share Fun Things to Do During Conference

As part of our 30th anniversary Conference and celebration, the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) put a fun twist on our usual 'fun things to do around our Conference city" blog by asking some of our local members to share what's great and unique about New Orleans, LA!

Thank you to these awesome members who participated!

Lindsey Cross
Director of New Orleans Programming
Generation Hope

JAMNOLA (Joy Art Music NOLA) is great! It's a space that features 29 exhibits showcasing the iconic art, music, food, and theatrics of New Orleans through the eyes of over 100 local artists and collaborators. Also, StudioBe is fun, maybe a burlesque show at the Allways Lounge (if you're feeling like walk on the wilder side) or a ghost tour!

Liza Sherman
Director of the Opportunity Youth Initiative
Delgado Community College

In the evening- take a ferry to Algiers Point and dine at Nighthawk Napolitana or Barracuda Taco Stand and Margarita Garden. Wednesday after sessions would be a great time to go check out the Historic New Orleans Collection!

Amanda Kruger Hill
Executive Director
Cowen Institute at Tulane University

"Within close proximity to the Conference, there's a nice walk along the Mississippi River, and the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium are great if people are bringing families. For shopping close to the Conference, there are local artisan stands at the French Market near the river, the Riverwalk outlet mall and Canal Place. People can also take the ferry on the Mississippi River. Of course, the French Quarter is near the Sheraton.

If Conference attendees want to venture farther out, I love City Park, which has an amazing sculpture garden, Café du Monde, Children’s Museum, New Orleans Museum of Art, and more. Riding the streetcar along St. Charles Avenue to see the beautiful homes and walking in Audubon Park is classic. I also enjoy strolling Magazine Street and stopping in the shops. I agree with Chantelle about the Saints game. And of course, New Orleans has many amazing restaurants—both near the Conference and beyond."

Karaline Zeigler
Director of Programs, Data and Strategy
College Beyond

"Magnolia Yoga is a Black owned yoga studio in walking distance to many downtown hotels (14-minute walk from the Sheraton). The New Orleans Athletic Club is a historic gym in the French Quarter and they offer day passes (amazing steam rooms).

It will be fall migration and New Orleans has some incredible birding opportunities! My favorite spot is the Couterie Forest in City Park. I could arrange/lead a walk if we think there might be a bird nerd cohort at #NCAN2025. Our university partner (the University of New Orleans) holds a walk every week so folks can check out Birds of UNO for an idea of our local birds! 

Julie Gamze-Elçin
Director of Education Programs
Puentes NOLA

Puentes' office space is currently inside of Beanlandia, which is another spot for visitors to check out and support!

Clara Baron-Hyppolite
Executive Director
College Beyond

Baron-Hyppolite graciously provided us with a list of more than 30 great restaurants (including Dooky Chase!) and cool spots around New Orleans to check out that we simply couldn't do them justice in this format. Click here to see the list she compiled and thanks Clara!

Read More:

• CBO & Higher Ed Partnership Case Studies - Part III: NCCPC & State/Regional Collaboration
• How Goal Setting Helps Students Become Motivated for Postsecondary Goals
• Undergrad Enrollment Up 3.5% This Spring; Two-Years Lead the Way Again

We’re excited to announce that we’re only four months away from the college access and success’ premiere annual convening – the National College Attainment Network’s (NCAN) 2025 National Conference! Join us in New Orleans, LA, from September 8-10 for this student-centered event that is thoughtfully curated and packed with diverse perspectives. If you're still contemplating whether to attend, here's why you should register today:

Networking Opportunities: With over 1,500 attendees from across the country in the postsecondary education access and attainment field, this is your chance to expand your network! Attend our Conference to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for student success, exchange ideas, and initiate future collaborations.

Diverse Learning Experience: Explore various learning opportunities with more than 60 sessions and workshops spread across three days of programming, including pre- and post-con events. Featuring presenters selected through a rigorous national call for proposals, our programming aims to address issues that are crucial to attendees’ success in serving their students and communities.

Insights from Changemakers and Leaders: Don’t miss out on this opportunity to hear directly from changemakers and leaders of the field! Prepare to be inspired, engage in valuable discussions, and gain insights from these pioneers. Their expertise, wisdom, and experiences will surely equip you with fresh perspectives and tools to make a positive impact in your work.

Explore New Orleans: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of one of America’s oldest and most diverse cities! Discover all NOLA has to offer - from famous attractions like the French Quarter to hidden gems like the Voodoo Museum, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy during the trip. Be sure to check out our forthcoming travel guide for hotel, restaurant, and entertainment recommendations!

The Conference is Fun! We design our Conference to not only be an enriching experience, but also engaging and enjoyable for all attendees. There will be plenty of opportunities for you to forge connections with fellow attendees, enjoy time in New Orleans, and gain valuable insights for your work. We will also celebrate our NCAN Award of Excellence winners this year at the Conference.

Secure your spot at #NCAN2025 today and take advantage of our early-bird rate, ending on July 11, 2025. Register now to save before prices increase - NCAN members get an extra discount! Watch the video below to learn more:

Read More:

• NCAN Announces Second Oak Foundation Grantee Cohort
• New Student Mental Wellness Resources from NCAN
• Journey to 30: NCAN Celebrates Three Decades of Impact

Reading time: Two minutes

The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) is excited to announce the five amazing members recently selected for the second cohort of a grant project being generously funded by the Oak Foundation.

NCAN will provide these member organizations direct grant support to expand their capacity in guiding the postsecondary transition of students with learning differences in addition to providing them with technical assistance and professional development to strengthen their efforts.

The following four members are part of the grant project, “Strengthening Postsecondary Transitions for Students with Learning Difference,” funded by the Oak Foundation: 

• College AIM - Atlanta, GA
• College Now Greater Cleveland - Cleveland, OH
• Denver Public Schools - Denver, CO
• Goddard Riverside Community Center - New York, NY
  
• Milwaukee Public Schools Foundation - Milwaukee, WI

Our entire Network will benefit from these grant projects, as NCAN will curate and share tons of content and training via webinars, blog posts, Conference sessions, and more. Our grantees will share their lessons learned and promising practices in strengthening postsecondary transitions for their students. We look forward to playing a role in increasing our members’ capacity in these unique and much needed efforts.

Read More:

• CBO & Higher Education Partnership Case Studies - Part I: Onward We Learn
  
• New Student Mental Wellness Resources from NCAN
• Member of the Month - April 2025: Brian Thomas
  
  
  
  
  

The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) is excited to announce the launch of our "Supporting the Whole Student Through Mental Health and Wellbeing" initiative. This project, in partnership with the ECMC Foundation and The Jed Foundation, aims to equip individuals and organizations working with young people with the tools and strategies necessary to support their students' mental health effectively.

This initiative provided grants to six member organizations, each receiving $30,000 over two years to enhance their capacity to address student mental health needs. With The JED Foundation, these organizations conducted in-depth needs assessments to identify existing gaps in mental health resources and better understand the specific challenges faced by their students. The findings from these assessments informed tailored action plans to implement effective and sustainable mental health support strategies.

NCAN has created a new resources page, which includes grantee profiles and blog posts, to assist organizations in implementing best practices for student mental health and wellness. These resources can be accessed to NCAN members and non-members alike at no cost.

Insights and Outcomes

Through this initiative, NCAN has identified six key insights to guide organizations in fostering environments conducive to student mental health and academic success:

• Holistic Support: Addressing both academic and non-academic factors is essential in supporting the whole student.
• Cultural Competence: Implementing culturally relevant programs ensures that mental health services resonate with diverse student populations.
• Proactive Engagement: Early identification and intervention can prevent the escalation of mental health issues.
• Community Partnerships: Collaborations with external mental health organizations can enhance the scope and quality of support services.
• Staff Training: Equipping staff with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to mental health concerns is crucial.
• Sustainable Practices: Developing long-term strategies ensures the continuity and effectiveness of mental health support.

These insights serve as a roadmap for organizations striving to create supportive environments where students can thrive both academically and personally.

For more information on this initiative, click here.

Read More:

• Journey to 30: NCAN Celebrates Three Decades of Impact
• Meet the 2025 NCAN Advisory Task Force!
• Check Out NCAN’s Top Blog Posts of 2024

Reading time: Four minutes

2025 marks an exciting milestone for the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) as we celebrate 30 years of advocating for and advancing equity in higher education! We’re excited to share in reflection and celebration with our entire network, honoring our nine founding members along the way, and hosting a special 30th Anniversary Celebration at our National Conference in New Orleans, LA, this September 8-10. Join us in celebrating all year long: by sharing our story on social and in your communities; proudly displaying your “Member of NCAN” logo on your organization’s website and your email signature; make plans to join us at our National Conference, and more importantly; continuing to push through the challenges in our field to provide equitable and exceptional services to students and families, just as you’ve done for the last three decades and counting! Read on to learn more about our journey to 30 years of impact in the postsecondary field.

The Road to 30 Years

At the heart of NCAN’s work lies a clear and compelling vision: "All students - especially first-generation students, students from underrepresented racial/ethnic backgrounds, and those from low-income backgrounds - have an equitable opportunity to achieve social and economic mobility through higher education." This vision drives every initiative, partnership, and policy change that NCAN champions. Our network works tirelessly to expand access to and success in higher education for those who face systemic barriers to achievement because our we understand that higher education is not just a personal achievement; it’s a powerful tool for breaking generational cycles of poverty and creating pathways for future generations to thrive.

Since its inception as a 501c3 in 1995, NCAN has been steadfast in its mission to create an equitable path for students by ensuring that the policies and practices of the postsecondary attainment field provide the support and resources necessary to achieve social and economic mobility through higher education. Recognizing the need to elevate the learning and development of the caring and knowledgeable adults serving students and families, NCAN’s nine founding members had a vision to create a space where they can share best practices and spread college access and success services around the country.

These founding members were organizations that were already doing the work of supporting students and families in their respective communities- and together they laid the foundation for an organization that would grow to influence policies, systems, and practices on a national scale.

Early Milestones

NCAN’s early years were focused on creating a platform for collaboration among organizations that shared the same vision. In 1997, NCAN held its first National Conference, bringing together educators, advocates, and thought leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities in college access and success. This annual event quickly became a hallmark of NCAN’s efforts, providing a space for members to learn from one another and share innovative solutions to common challenges.

In 2001, NCAN received a leadership gift from KnowledgeWorks Foundation, which allowed the organization to hire its first professional staff, based in Cleveland, OH. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in NCAN's growth, allowing the organization to build a strong foundation of staff and resources to better support its expanding network of members.

A Focus on Policy and National Impact

In 2007, NCAN took a bold step and relocated its headquarters to Washington, DC, strategically positioning itself to engage more directly with national policymakers and advocacy efforts. This move enabled NCAN to influence not only the practices of its member organizations but also the policies and systems that shape college access and success on a national scale.

By being closer to policymakers, NCAN has been able to advocate for federal and state policy changes that benefit more than 2 million students and families each year. To date, NCAN continues to work closely with US government agencies and policymakers to improve students’ postsecondary educational options, increase transparency and efficiency, and advance outcomes that strengthen our workforce.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Equity and Access

As NCAN celebrates 30 years of transforming the higher education landscape, we continue to build upon our legacy of advocacy, collaboration, and support for students. The organization’s work is as crucial as ever, with challenges like rising tuition costs, changes to federal aid, and the ongoing effects of the pandemic creating new barriers to access and success. However, with its focus on equity and its proven track record of driving change, NCAN is poised to continue making a profound impact.

As we look ahead to the next 30 years, NCAN remains committed to its mission: to support members and influence leaders, organizations, policies, and systems across the country to increase equity and excellence in postsecondary degree access and attainment. Through partnerships with schools, nonprofits, foundations, and policymakers, NCAN is determined to create a future where every student, no matter their background, has the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential.

In this 30th year of celebration, NCAN proudly honors its past while continuing to build a brighter future for students across the nation. Here’s to the next 30 years of transformative work and unwavering commitment to equity in higher education. 

Read More:

• Meet the 2025 NCAN Advisory Task Force!
• Check Out NCAN’s Top Blog Posts of 2024
• NCAN Staff Share Their 2025 Resolutions

The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) is thrilled to announce its 2025 Advisory Task Force!

Comprised of 25 innovative leaders from across the country in various sectors of college attainment, Advisory Task Force members range from direct student service in the secondary space to the corridors of higher education, as well as private scholarship foundations, nonprofit organizations to state agencies. NCAN created this space to bring our members together monthly to share ideas, solve problems, and recognize trends.

Task Force members provide NCAN with real time knowledge of the conditions, obstacles, and victories our members are experiencing across the nation. Their feedback is used to identify, vet, and curate the most relevant resources and professional development opportunities for all our members. We sincerely thank each of them for their dedication to students and the industry. 

Daniel Barkowitz
AVP Student Financial Assistance & Employment 
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL

Daniel T. Barkowitz is the Assistant Vice President of Financial Assistance and Employment at the University of Miami (Miami, FL). He has served 35 years in higher education institutions. Barkowitz has held various volunteer roles with NASFAA (National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators), SASFAA (Southern Region), EASFAA (Eastern Region), FASFAA (Florida), and MASFAA (Massachusetts), including past president of SASFAA for 2024-25, past president of the Florida Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (FASFAA) and the inaugural chair of the NASFAA's Commission of the Certified Financial Aid Administrator (CFAA) Program.

Barkowitz also served as the primary negotiator for financial aid administrators in the 2021 Federal Negotiated Rulemaking. He holds the Financial Aid Administrator, Certified designation. Daniel is a recipient of FASFAA’s Distinguished Service Award, MASFAA's Presidential Award, two-time recipient of FASFAA’s President’s Recognition Award, two-time recipient of MIT's Dean of Undergraduate Education Infinite Mile Award, and the recipient of Florida College Access Network's (FCAN) Top Influencer Award. Barkowitz earned his bachelor's degree in history from Northeastern University (Boston, MA) and his Master’s of Education in Human Resource Education from Boston University (Boston, MA). He earned a certificate in professional fundraising from Boston University. He is a published poet, musical theater actor, and tarot card designer and collector. Barkowitz has two adult children and an adorable fur-baby.

Ryane Boyd
Associate Director of College Success
DC Prep
Washington, DC

With over ten years of experience in college access and success work, Ryane Boyd is a dedicated student advocate who is passionate about helping students navigate the complexities of their postsecondary journeys. As the Associate Director of College Success at PrepNext, a DC Prep Alumni program, she leads the college success program initiatives to guide and ensure students reach their full potential.  

Her commitment to this work is personal. As a first-generation college graduate, Boyd overcame her fair share of financial barriers throughout her own postsecondary experience. Through resilience and determination, she earned a bachelor’s degree in English studies from the University of Missouri at Columbia and a master’s degree in diversity and equity in education from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. 

Boyd’s commitment to supporting underrepresented students began with her work with the College Advising Corps, where she served as a founding advisor in the St. Louis Public School District. She uses a data-driven, holistic, student-centered approach to support her students. Boyd combines her lived experiences with acquired knowledge to advocate for equitable education, empower students, and create inclusive spaces for them to thrive. 

Andrea Glenn
Director of Postsecondary and Community Engagement
Arizona Department of Education
Phoenix, AZ

Andrea Glenn is Arizona Department of Education’s (ADE) first Director of Postsecondary and Community Engagement, joining the team in June 2020. Prior to her work at ADE, Glenn began her work in the field of education upon graduating from Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ) and then being accepted into Teach for America as a high school English teacher. She has over 17 years of experience in education, 12 of them specifically helping first-generation students get to and through college. Glenn is excited to work at ADE in her role and help bring schools, districts, and postsecondary organizations together to best support our pre-K through 20 students.

Richard Gonzalez
Assistant Commissioner of Adult Learners
Utah System of Higher Education
Salt Lake City, UT

With a doctorate degree from the University of Utah (Salt Lake City, UT) and a master's of business administration degree from Utah State University (Logan, UT), Richard Gonzalez has dedicated his career to higher education. He proudly serves as the Assistant Commissioner for Access at the Utah System of Higher Education, working to make education accessible to all. In addition, he also serves as board president for the Utah Jump$tart Coalition, a nonprofit organization that advocates for general financial literacy education for K-12 youth.

The intersectionality of identities which include first-generation college student, low-income upbringing, son of immigrant parents, alternative high school graduate, and adult learner student inform his perspective as a higher education professional and researcher. His research interests are mostly focused on adult learners and enrollment management practices. When not in the office, you can find Gonzalez in the great outdoors, fueling his love for camping and perfecting his yard. But his true joy is grilling carne asada with family and friends, savoring those moments that truly matter.

Tyler Guenette
Chief of Staff
Michigan College Access Network (MCAN)
Lansing, MI

Tyler Guenette serves as the chief of staff for the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN). In this role, he works on the Executive Leadership team and assists all departments to provide support and thought partnership, and to identify opportunities that can advance MCAN’s strategic plan.

Guenette is a proud first-generation college student, whose parents told him they expected him to go to college, even though they didn't know what that meant or entailed. Guenette received his bachelor's degree from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, his master’s degree from Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI), and his doctorate degree from Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD). 

Tiffany Gusbeth
Vice President, Student Success Services
American Indian College Fund
Denver, CO

A proud citizen of the Northern Cheyenne Nation, Tiffany Gusbeth has spent 10 years at the American Indian College Fund dedicated to advancing Native student success. In her role, Gusbeth leads the development and implementation of comprehensive student support systems, including scholarships, college access, career readiness, student engagement, and strategic enrollment management. She also oversees the creation of a student and program management database to better serve Native students' needs. Gusbeth's leadership is guided by a deep commitment to ensuring that these initiatives are culturally relevant and respectful to the communities she serves.

As a first-generation college student, Gusbeth’s educational journey has been shaped by resilience and determination. Her experiences as a GED graduate and a student at a Tribal College or University (TCU) provide Gusbeth with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Native students navigating higher education. These experiences have fueled her passion for ensuring that Native students receive the support they need to succeed academically and culturally.

Gerrick Hampton
Associate Director for Student Affairs
South Carolina Commission on Higher Education. 
Columbia, SC

Dr. Gerrick J. Hampton is the Associate Director for the Office of Student Affairs at the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (CHE). Hampton earned his bachelor’s degree and Master’s of Business Administration from Winthrop University (Rock Hill, SC), and his doctorate degree at Nova Southeastern University (Fort Lauderdale, FL). He currently manages the LIFE & SC HOPE Scholarship Programs, the Lottery Tuition Assistance program, and the South Carolina Residency Program. In addition, he also oversees the CHE College Access Programs: College Application Month, College Goal South Carolina and College Decision Day. Hampton has been with CHE for 14 years. His work in college access focuses on helping students identify institutions of higher education that may best suit their needs and accessing funding to assist with their education.

Patti Harris
Director
University of North Carolina System/GEAR UP North Carolina
Raleigh, NC

Patti B. Harris is the director of GEAR UP NC, a federally funded grant designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. Harris develops and oversees statewide programming and college access initiatives, builds and sustains relationships with national and local community partners to leverage support for GEAR UP related activities, and manages external partnerships to enhance student success at secondary and post-secondary levels. With over 15 years of experience in college access and higher education, starting in undergrad as a work-study student in financial aid, to serving as a college adviser to rural high school students, to becoming the first director of the NC State College Advising Corps, Harris remains committed to ensuring all students have the greatest opportunity to upward mobility.

A first-generation college student, Harris earned her M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration from North Carolina State University (Raleigh, NC) and her bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. 

Ann Helfman
Senior Director of Continuous Improvement and College Access
New Tech Network
Bozeman, MT

As Senior Director of Continuous Improvement and College Access at New Tech Network (NTN), Ann Helfman leads continuous improvement and college access coaching efforts and the design of learning experiences for NTN College Access schools and districts with the aim of improving outcomes in college enrollment, persistence, and attainment for students of color and students experiencing poverty.

Helfman developed her passion for college access and success through her work in the greater Boston area at Citizen Schools, City on a Hill Charter Public High School, and Crimson Summer Academy. In 2010, Helfman joined Bottom Line, an organization that supports underrepresented students to and through college. There, she first served as a Senior College Counselor, working with a caseload of high school and college students, and went on to lead Bottom Line’s College Access Program in Massachusetts. She has also served as the New England College Access Director for Let’s Get Ready, leading their efforts to serve 1,100 high school students from 20 historically underserved communities across New England with near-peer mentoring, SAT prep, and college advising. Prior to joining NTN, she served as the Director of Operations for the College and Alumni Program (CAP), a program of Making Waves Foundation that provides need-based scholarships, one-on-one coaching, and financial advising to Bay Area college students. Helfman earned an undergraduate degree in Government and Economics from Harvard College (Cambridge, MA) and a M.Ed. from Lesley University (Cambridge, MA).

Ashley Lane-Barrett
Program Manager
Detroit College Access Network (DCAN)
Detroit, MI

As a Program Manager for DCAN, Ashley Lane-Barrett manages city-wide college access and success programming and supports all Detroit public and charter school counselors and advisors. She also leads DCAN's Skilled Trades initiatives, ensuring college access professionals, students and families have knowledge and exposure to all postsecondary pathways.

Lane-Barrett is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and a recipient of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation scholarship. She currently serves as a Michigan ACT Council Member and is part of the inaugural cohort of the Change Collective, a national leadership network that empowers and enables local changemakers to solve problems at the community level.

Michael LeeYow
Managing Director/Head of Programs
Bottom Line
Brooklyn, NY

In his role as Managing Director of Programs for Bottom Line New York, LeeYow leads the strategic vision and implementation of the core program models (College Access, College Success, and Career Connections). LeeYow has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and African American studies from the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA). He has been an educator for over 20 years in four major cities. Since graduating, he has been a recognized educational leader, working in marginalized communities in Philadelphia, PA, Oakland, CA, Chicago, IL and eventually back to New York, NY in 2015. Over the years, LeeYow has been the recipient of various awards including the New York City Department of Education D79 Superintendent’s Recognition Award, former Congressman Chaka Fattah’s Men Making a Difference Award, and has sat on a variety of advisory boards and steering committees.

Rachel Livingston
Chief Program Officer
Fulfillment Fund
Los Angeles, CA

Livingston’s 30-year career in education spans teaching, college counseling, and administration at the elementary, middle, and high school levels in the Los Angeles, CA, area. In her current role, Livingston leads all programmatic activities, overseeing Fulfillment Fund’s College Access and College Success programs. Known for her data-driven approach to decision-making, she has built positive school cultures and developed strategies to help under-resourced students achieve academic success, pursue success in college and launch their careers.

A nationally recognized trainer, Livingston is passionate about educational equity and youth mental health as well as building positive and supportive workplace cultures. She has received acclaim for her leadership in college counseling across the Los Angeles Unified School District and several charter school networks.

Katie Lovera
Assistant Director of College Advising
I Know I Can
Columbus, OH

Katie Lovera is a dynamic professional committed to creating inclusive, strategic, and data-driven solutions in higher education, with a proven track record of achieving recruitment goals and advancing diversity initiatives. She is passionate about working with high school students to fulfill their goal of achieving a college education. In her current role, Lovera serves as the Assistant Director of College Advising at I Know I Can, Ohio’s first college access program and a founding member of NCAN. Katie holds a Master’s of Science in Education in College Student Personnel as well as a bachelor's degree in Political Science, both from the University of Dayton (Dayton, OH). She has nearly two decades of progressive experience in enrollment management at both public and private universities as well as dual enrollment coordination for a public K-12 school district.

Gina Moraida
Associate, RGV FOCUS
Educate Texas
Harlingen, TX

Gina Moraida brings over a decade of expertise in college access and nonprofit work to her role as Associate, RGV FOCUS at Educate Texas. Passionate about helping students achieve their educational dreams, she equips Rio Grande Valley counselors and advisors with the financial aid training and resources they need to succeed. Moraida also supports TxCAN's mission by maintaining dynamic digital communication and assisting its leadership team in delivering impactful initiatives. Before joining Educate Texas, she was part of the College Advising Corps, spearheading mission-critical projects that enhanced student impact nationwide.

Outside of her professional life, you’ll find her planning unforgettable vacations for her travel clients or creating core memories with family and friends. Whether discovering new destinations or empowering communities, Moraida is driven by a commitment to growth, connection, and adventure.

Debbie Nguyen
Executive Director
Alray Scholars Program
Boston, MA

Debbie Nguyen is the Executive Director of the Alray Scholars Program, a nonprofit organization with the mission of reducing barriers to degree attainment for returning adult college students in Boston, MA. Immediately prior to Alray Scholars Programs, Nguyen was the Chief of Staff at Foster America, a national organization focused on improving the foster care system. She also has provided strategy consulting to nonprofits and foundations, designed and implemented college access and success programming for first-generation college students, and coached youth aging out of foster care on securing and maintaining employment. Outside of her full-time work, Nguyen volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boston Tax Help Coalition, and Girls Aspire. She also serves on the Board of Directors of local nonprofits Building Audacity and Root Cause. Nguyen is a proud alumna of Brockton Public Schools (MA), Swarthmore College (Swarthmore, PA), and Harvard Graduate School of Education (Boston, MA).

Bijal Parikh
Program Specialist for Four Year Partnerships
CollegeTracks/Success Program
Silver Spring, MD

As the Program Specialist for Four Year Partnerships at CollegeTracks, Bijal Parikh develops strategic partnerships with key personnel from major Maryland public and private universities as well as local businesses to support first generation, low-income and immigrant students’ college persistence, degree completion and career pathway goals. In her almost 20 years of experience as a social work program manager and director, she has specialized in developing and managing direct service programs to advance education equity in the most vulnerable communities.

Parikh hails from New York (NY) where she spent over 10 years in advertising and direct marketing before graduating from Columbia University with a master’s degree in Social Work. She has advocated for immigrant survivors of trafficking and abuse, supported transition planning for court involved youth aging out of the foster care system, implemented parenting programming for female inmates, and managed a wraparound support program for DC-area high school students. When she is not advocating for first generation college students, she enjoys going on adventures, keeping up with pop culture with her three teenagers, and occasionally enjoying a quiet moment with a good book.

Kayla Ritter Rickels
Senior Director, Postsecondary Leadership Coach
OneGoal
Newport, KY

Kayla Ritter Rickels serves as a Postsecondary Leadership Coach, working with district leaders and collective impact partners to develop postsecondary cultures of success for all students. With a set of values rooted in the belief that education is liberation, she has dedicated her career to the creation of enabling conditions for equity in exploration, access, and attainment of a postsecondary credential.

She began her career in college admissions and enrollment management and has moved through the college access non-profit, K-12 school district, and education technology organization spaces that allowed her to drive impact and system change with a keen focus on equity for historically marginalized and minoritized students. She earned her Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from Northern Kentucky University (Highland Heights, KY), her Master’s of Science in Marketing from the University of Cincinnati (Cincinnati, OH), and her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Thomas More College (Merrimack, NH).

Brett Schraeder
Managing Director
EAB
Altadena, CA

Brett Schraeder is the Managing Director of the Financial Aid division of EAB, a company that helps over 1,500 college and universities across the US recruit and retain students. Schraeder has worked at EAB for nine years, but before that spent 20 years working for colleges recruiting students, often in underserved communities, most recently at Occidental College in Los Angeles (CA). He has written several articles and blog posts on how to encourage FAFSA submission and issues related to students’ ability to complete the FAFSA. For the Advisory Task Force, he hopes to bring the college/university perspective to the table to better connect students to resources they need to attend college.

Jackie Shannon
Scholarship Manager
Maine Community Foundation
Ellsworth, ME

Jackie Shannon is the Scholarship Manager with the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF), working with college-age and adult students looking to pursue higher education. MaineCF is the largest scholarship provider in Maine, with over 700 named scholarship funds and awarding nearly $4 million in scholarships each year.

Shannon earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine at Presque Isle, and her Master’s of Public Administration in nonprofit management from the University of Baltimore (Baltimore, MD). Prior to working at MaineCF, Shannon provided staff training at a residential school for children with developmental disabilities.

Shannon lives in a very small town near the coast of Maine with her husband and teenage daughter, as well as an assortment of pets and farm animals. When she is not chauffeuring her daughter to her many social engagements and sporting events, she enjoys winter sports, spending time with her animals, reading, and gardening. 

Blair Smith
Advancement and Communications Coordinator
Virginia College Advising Corps
Charlottesville, VA

As the Advancement and Communications Coordinator for the Virginia College Advising Corps, Blair Smith supports the organization's efforts to increase the number of first-generation, limited-income, and underrepresented students in Virginia who enter and complete higher education. He previously served as a college advisor at a rural high school in Danville, VA through the Corps. As an advisor, he was recognized with the Laurie and Peter Grauer True North Award, given to one out of the national College Advising Corps' more than 750 advisers across the country for excellence in service.

Smith graduated from the University of Virginia (Charlottesville, VA) in 2021 with a major in Spanish and Political and Social Thought. In college, he interned with Enseña Perú, an education-focused nonprofit based in Lima, Peru, where he completed research on school-based violence prevention strategies. He was awarded the John A. Herring Scholarship for Social Awareness, given each year to two University of Virginia students who demonstrate leadership, citizenship, and fellowship. In his free time, he enjoys singing with The Washington Chorus in Washington, DC.

Madison Smith
Director of Education
Boys and Girls Clubs of Dane County, WI
Madison, WI

Madison Smith oversees the TOPS College Success Program at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dane County. This program serves over 1,000 students at more than 60 colleges and universities across the country that graduated from the AVID program in Madison, WI. TOPS students receive academic coaching, financial support, and connections to different on and off campus resources.

A Rochester, MN native, Smith graduated with her bachelor's degree in Education from University of Wisconsin at Madison in 2017. After college, she went on to teach middle school for four years in Chicago (IL) Public Schools. When not working, you can find her training for the Madison half marathon, playing with her four-year-old daughter and one-year-old son, or watching reality TV.

Hector Talavera
Assistant Director of Scholarly Services
Office of Undergraduate Scholarships, University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS

Hector Talavera is the Assistant Director of Scholarly Services at the University of Southern Mississippi (Hattiesburg, MS), where he supports both new and current students to succeed in college. He coordinates various events for scholars and student staff to support campus and community initiatives, making a positive impact on both Southern Mississippi and the Hattiesburg community. Talavera’s position also involves presenting and collaborating with various campus officials and city partners.

As the coordinator of the Osceola McCarty Scholars program, he oversees the educational development of scholars by organizing presentations and workshops on topics that contribute to their academic success throughout the year. Additionally, Talavera regularly works with parents, students, and staff to address scholarship concerns and needs, which allows him to witness the challenges families face when navigating the college experience.

He is particularly passionate about supporting first-generation students, especially those from Latino/a families, who face immense challenges from the admissions process to succeeding during college.

Brionna Taylor
College Access Specialist
Kansas City Public Schools
Kansas City, Missouri

A native of Santa Clarita, CA, and a first-generation college graduate, Brionna Taylor has personally experienced the transformative power of education, which drives her passion for helping students succeed. She began her academic journey at Los Angeles Southwest College (Los Angeles, CA) and later earned her bachelor’s degree in Business from Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS) in 2018. Taylor is currently pursuing her master’s degree in School Counseling to further equip herself to guide students toward achieving their goals.

Being a College Access Specialist with Kansas City Public Schools, she serves low-income and underrepresented students in Kansas City, MO, helping them navigate the college and career process. As someone who has walked this path herself, Taylor is deeply committed to making higher education accessible and equitable for all students. Every day, she strives to empower students to believe in their potential and take the necessary steps to achieve their goals.

Brian Thomas
Director, Jackson Get2College Center
Woodward Hines Education Foundation (WHEF)
Jackson, MS

A native of Jackson, MS, baseball was life growing up for Brian Thomas. He started his college journey at a local community college on a baseball scholarship. After a year of college baseball, he gave it up and transferred to a large public university in Mississippi. Thomas then transferred his junior year to Belhaven University, a small, private, liberal arts college in Jackson (MS). He didn’t know his college “tour” would eventually aid in his college access work. He can tell students about the differences between a two-year college, a large, four-year university, and a small, liberal arts college. Prior to working with WHEF/Get2College, Thomas had never touched a FAFSA. Now, he considers himself a FAFSA nerd and loves to geek-out with colleagues going over various scenarios they encounter. He still lives in Jackson with his wife and daughters, ages 10 and six years old.

BG Tucker
Executive Director
College Possible Minnesota
St. Paul, MN

A passionate advocate for educational equity, BG Tucker has dedicated her career to empowering students to achieve their college aspirations. Tucker 's journey in education began as a Teach for America corps member, teaching Spanish in Gary, IN. This experience ignited her passion for college access and success, leading her to become a founding college counselor at KIPP Academy Lynn Collegiate in Massachusetts.

In 2016, Tucker moved to London to pursue US admission counseling abroad. She moved her family back to Minnesota, where she served as Director of College and Career Counseling at Venture Academy. Building on her passion for student success, Tucker now serves as the Executive Director for College Possible Minnesota. Her extensive experience in program development, strategic planning, and team leadership has helped College Possible Minnesota support students across the state.

She holds a bachelor’s in Latin American Studies from Carleton College (Northfield, MN) and an M.Ed. from the University of Minnesota (Minneapolis, MN). She resides in Minneapolis, MN, with her husband, Sam, and their two sons, Mac and Jack.

Read More:

• Second $50 Million Round of FAFSA Student Support Funds Now Available
• Check Out NCAN’s Top Blog Posts of 2024
• Member of the Month - January 2025: Sydney Matthes

The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) team wishes you a Happy New Year! As we start 2025, NCAN is reflecting on all we accomplished in 2024, including our top blog posts that grabbed the attention of our readers, members, and the communities we serve. Want to catch up on any blogs? You can find all of them here.

First Place

ED Announces 2025-26 FAFSA To Open December 1 with Full Functionality

In August, the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) announced that the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) would open by December 1, 2024 with full, end-to-end functionality. FSA also announced that it would begin FAFSA testing cycles in selected locations starting in October and would grow the number of FAFSAs it tests over time. It’s no surprise that this headline-grabbing news topped our list of blog posts.

Second Place

2025-26 FAFSA Now Available to All

In November, FSA announced that the 2025-26 FAFSA was open to any student wishing to complete it. This came shortly following an announcement that it would expand FAFSA beta testing before December 1 to all students who wish to complete a 2025-26 FAFSA. By this point, more than 22,000 students had successfully submitted a FAFSA during the test period. This article’s second place finish comes is unsurprising given the gravity of the news.

Third Place

White House, ED Announce FAFSA “Week of Action” April 15-19

At the end of March, the White House and the US Department of Education (ED) announced a FAFSA Week of Action, which took place April 15-19. The announcement came as advocates across the country were calling with increased urgency for a concerted effort from all stakeholders and at all levels to assist students and families with completing the 2024-25 award year FAFSA. Read this blog post which rounded out our top three.

Honorable Mentions

New FAFSA Data Detail Slow Start, Uphill Climb Ahead for Class of 2024

A post from January dug into the worrying data that showed FAFSA submissions for the class of 2024 were down about 57% compared to 2023, and the national FAFSA submission rate stood at just 16% through January 26. This slow start aligned with the experiences of students, families, and practitioners across the country who have struggled over the past month with the 2024-25 cycle FAFSA’s delayed launch and hiccupping rollout. Read this blog post here.

FSA Releases Updated Guidance for FAFSA Question about Free/Reduced Lunch

FSA released updated guidance in early January for answering the FAFSA question about a student’s receipt of free/reduced school lunch programs (FRPL). This question is important because those who indicate on the FAFSA that they received FRPL can skip FAFSA questions about financial assets.  For families with incomes under $60,000, this updated guidance has no effect, as they would not have been required to report assets on the FAFSA anyway. Read the blog post here.

Read More:

• Blog Posts You Might Have Missed this Year
  
• NCAN Staff Share Their 2025 Resolutions
• NCAN Adds, Revamps E-Learning Courses 

The new year is traditionally a time for many of us to make resolutions and set goals, both personal and professional. National College Attainment Network (NCAN) staff members are no exception. I recently asked my colleagues what their resolutions are for 2025, which I’ve outlined below. I also included my own for good measure!

Johanne Belzor
Operations and Event Manager
“I haven’t determined what my 2025 resolution(s) will be, but it’s safe to say I met my 2025 goals. I didn’t get a single ticket (speeding, parking, red light, or otherwise) this year!” Note: This is a big deal for those of us living and driving in the DC-area. If you know, you know.

Alessandra Cipriani-Detres
Program Associate
“My resolution is to embrace my wavy hair! I will do this by embarking on my wavy hair care journey with the goal of perfecting my wavy hair care routine by the end of 2025.”

Bill DeBaun
Senior Director, Data and Strategic Initiatives
“I’d like to set two resolutions – one mental, one physical. On the mental side, I’d like to continue to learn R because as NCAN’s ‘data guy’, I’d like to add a new skill to my toolbox. On the physical side, I’d love to get my 5k time under 22:00!”

Elizabeth Morgan
Chief External Relations Officer
“My resolution is to raise more funds for NCAN Conference registration and scholarships”

Matthew Odom
Communications Manager
“My resolution is to prioritize people in my life who make the effort. Life’s too short to dedicate time and energy to those who don’t care.”

Simone Pringle
Program Associate
“Everyone on #TeamNCAN knows I’m an avid stand-up comedy fan. I usually see at least one live show every month or every other month. I’m fueled by the constant pursuit of laughter and things that bring me joy. I’m intentional about prioritizing women comedians and comedians of color, as they tend to not be as highly profiled. My favorites from my 2024 shows were Dulce Sloan, Cristela Alonzo, Vir Das and Josh Johnson. 

I’m also going to continue checking things off my bucket list, some of which are all the things I didn’t do in undergrad or grad school in DC. So far, I’ve been to the Library of Congress, seen not one but three shows at the Kennedy Center, saw a Harlem Globetrotters game, watched an Alvin Ailey performance and yes, participated in a Netflix comedy special taping (Tom Papa’s Home Free)! I haven’t quite narrowed down my 2025 list, but I’m looking forward to all the comedy shows and bucket list adventures this year!”

What are your goals for the new year?

Read More:

• NCAN Adds, Revamps E-Learning Courses
• NCAN Hosts Meet and Greet for First-Time Conference Attendees
• Regrant Opportunity Available for NCAN Members

As per tradition, the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) uses the new year to examine how our blog posts from the prior year performed. In this article, we examine some posts you might have missed from 2024. As a reminder, all blog posts can be found on this page.

February 26: Announcing NCAN’s NEW State Policy Resource Center

NCAN was pleased to unveil our new State Policy Resource Center, a one stop shop for policy research, inspiration, and support for organizations working to advance college affordability through state policy. Whether you’re new to advocacy and seeking tips for getting started or a seasoned pro looking for fresh statistics to bolster your case, we’ve got you! From new state-by-state analyses of the economic impact of college to issue briefs on effective state policies, this resource center is designed to accelerate your impact, providing you with materials you can pick up and use in advocacy, and freeing you to spend your limited time on what matters most – building relationships. Learn more here.

April 19: Minnesota’s Policy Model for Transforming College Enrollment

As states seek answers to decreasing college enrollments within their public institutions, Minnesota is providing a blueprint for states to follow to try to reverse the trend. For the first time in 10 years, the state has introduced significant reforms to make postsecondary education more affordable for its residents. These reforms include direct admissions, free college for students from families that earn less than $80,000, and universal FAFSA bill in the works. As state leaders look to find best policy practices to advance equitable postsecondary access, NCAN hopes to uplift state policies and models like Minnesota’s that can inform and be replicated throughout the country. Read more in this blog.

June 24: NCAN Partners with MHEC and SHEEO to Organize First Regional FAFSA Summit in the Midwest

In June of last year, NCAN, the Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC), and the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO) hosted a first-of-its-kind Midwest FAFSA Summit in Chicago, IL. The three-day event convened around 150 college access and financial aid experts, administrators, advocates, and policymakers, working tirelessly to improve Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion and college enrollment for students in the Midwest. The agenda covered a wide range of topics related to FAFSA completion, from policy to communications to data. Read more in this blog.

September 30: College Access and Success for Justice-Impacted Students

NCAN and partners have been facilitating a fellowship program aimed at developing a cohort of college access and success programs to serve justice-impacted learners. The eight participating fellows have been working to develop a plan for growing their organization’s impact to support students who are incarcerated and/or those who were enrolled in a prison education program and are reentering free society. Fellows have conducted a needs analysis and created an ecosystem map of their communities. Read more in this blog.

December 9: Free Social Media Assets Available to Encourage FAFSA Completion

The 2025-26 FAFSA is open, and NCAN has free social media images and messages for you to use as you work to bounce back from last year’s challenging FAFSA season. We have updated last summer’s #DoTheFAFSA campaign social media toolkit with additional pre-drafted posts (in English and Spanish) and graphics for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, TikTok, and LinkedIn. You can use the posts as written or draft your own messages customized for and linked to your own FAFSA completion events and resources. The toolkit is free to any organization for noncommercial use. Read more in this blog.

Read More:

• NCAN Staff Share Their 2025 Resolutions
• NCAN Adds, Revamps E-Learning Courses
• NCAN Hosts Meet and Greet for First-Time Conference Attendees

The National College Attainment Network's (NCAN) Advisory Task Force (ATF) is now accepting applications for 2025! This group of 20-25 dedicated NCAN members will provide our organization with valuable feedback and insight over the course of the year. Members share effective practices, successes, and challenges that members are experiencing locally and nationwide. In this group, we develop a strong sense of community and transparency in which we value every individual's lived experience and honor confidentiality.

NCAN trusts ATF members as experts in the postsecondary access and attainment field. Their feedback informs some of our programming and professional development priorities, they vet recommended resources for practitioners, and even review our annual Awards of Excellence nominations.

This group meets virtually every month, beginning in January 2025. We ask ATF members to strive to serve for the entire calendar year, as your schedule allows. The ideal member will represent their organization and geographic location through their professional and personal lens. They will be willing to share their observations, opinions, and subject-matter expertise openly.

ATF Testimonials

"Serving on NCAN’s Advisory Task Force has been very rewarding and fulfilling. Resource sharing and the intentionality of intimately yet informally sharing wins, challenges, and solutions with practitioners nation-wide have been highlights for me. It absolutely propelled my career into the leadership position I landed towards the end of my ATF term. I additionally appreciate getting to know NCAN staff more personally and having the opportunity to be of service to the organization as it pours into us and helps us build capacity to better support our students." - Mia Gonzales Washington, Director of New Orleans College & Career Attainment Network, 2022 and 2023 cohorts

 "I've loved being a part of the Advisory Task Force. NCAN has made sure to have voices from literally all four corners of the US and everywhere in between. I’ve loved to share and learn from other practitioners who are embedded in the same work. I really looked forward to NCAN Conference and appreciated the passing of contact information for those attending the Conference as I was able to connect with another member of ATF. They say brilliant minds think alike. I love being in this group with all the brilliant minds to share how we are doing our work and how we can share what is working to help other students across the nation with college attainment." - Brian Thomas, Director of the Jackson Get2College Center, Get2College, 2024 cohort

“It has been a great experience, Being involved in the [Advisory Task Force] has helped me stay informed with what is going on across other states, neighboring states, and with NCAN as a whole, stay on topic of policies and have a group of like-minded professionals who help think through current issues in the field.” - Andrea Glenn, Director of Post-Secondary & Community Engagement, Arizona Department of Education, 2024 cohort

If this appeals to you or you have a colleague in mind, we invite you to apply or share this opportunity with your networks. Applications are due December 1, 2024.

APPLY

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The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) has revamped two of our e-learning courses that focus on diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. If you want to bolster your knowledge in this area, consider taking one or both of the new classes available:

Building Bridges - Diversity Foundation: This course is designed to equip those in the college access space with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all students. Participants will explore the core concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and learn practical strategies to address systemic barriers and promote student success. The course will cover topics such as implicit bias, cultural competence, and advocacy, while providing opportunities for self-reflection and skill development. By the end of this course, participants will be empowered to enhance their advising practices and become champions for equity and inclusion in higher education.

Beyond Basics: Strategic Approaches to Inclusive Excellence: This module builds on concepts to equip participants with practical tools for implementing diversity, inclusion, and accessibility strategies in educational and organizational settings. Through self-guided learning, participants will explore intersectionality, address systemic barriers, and develop skills in allyship, policy creation, and facilitating difficult conversations, enabling them to drive meaningful change.

Additionally, we have added a course on mental health wellness:

Handle with C.A.R.E.: This course empowers advisors to support student mental health, focusing on first-generation college students. Through "Handle with C.A.R.E." principles, participants grasp mental health concepts, identify challenges, and address urgent issues. It emphasizes effective communication, advisor roles, and self-care. Guidance on student referrals, resource utilization, and follow-up strategies ensures ongoing support and success.

Register for these e-learning (and others) here. All courses are free for NCAN members through August 2025.

Read More:

• Regrant Opportunity Available for NCAN Members
• NCAN Hosts Meet and Greet for First-Time Conference Attendees
• NCAN Announces 2024 Award of Excellence Winners in Anaheim

The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) is excited to launch the second round of a grant-funded project, generously supported by the Oak Foundation! The application for NCAN’s “Strengthening Postsecondary Transition for Students with Learning Differences” project is available and the deadline to apply is October 31, 2024. NCAN will select a total of five member organizations to receive a $45,000 grant over two years to build new or better postsecondary transition protocols with their selected partner colleges and universities for students with learning differences.

The purpose of this grant is to aid members in better supporting postsecondary transitions for students experiencing learning differences. The Oak Foundation defines students with learning differences as students with learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, as well as individuals who may have other related neurological processing challenges that can impact learning, such as attention deficits, sensory processing disorders, and executive function challenges. It includes students who have been tested and received a formal diagnosis, a 504 plan, or an individualized education plan (IEP) as well as those who have yet to receive formal accommodations. The process to get accommodations for these students does not only vary with their diagnosis but also between institutions.

Prospective grantees should expect to disaggregate students with learning differences and begin to monitor their persistence through the process of summer melt and on to degree attainment. Due to the prevalence of undiagnosed learning differences among our students, grantees can also expect to adjust their programming to be more universally effective across student abilities. Increasing and strengthening opportunities for students with intersecting identities will be a fundamental theme in this initiative as students who have learning differences are also experiencing inequity in higher education based on race and economic circumstances.

Interested NCAN members that are eligible may apply here by October 31, 2024. A sample application can also be found here. For application-related questions, please contact David LaNore at lanore@ncan.org.

Summary of Eligibility

• Number of awards: Five in 2025-26.
• Award amount: $45,000 over a two-year period ($30,000 in year one, $15,000 in year two).
• Eligibility: Applicants must be NCAN members and have a current 501c3 status; have a high concentration of students enrolling in at least one particular institutions; and have an existing or potential formal/informal partnership with higher education institution(s).
• Scope of work: Build new or better postsecondary transition protocols for students with learning differences in partnership with selected partner colleges and universities.
• Requirements: Selected members will meet monthly beginning in January 2025 through June 2026, in a community of practice cohort; Must identify one team member and one higher education partner to participate in NCAN’s 2025 National Conference in New Orleans, LA (NCAN will provide up to two complimentary registrations); This opportunity requires consistent participation and responsiveness from a designated project lead (full time staff person from within the organization).
  

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• NCAN Hosts Meet and Greet for First-Time Conference Attendees
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The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) plays a pivotal role in enhancing college access and success for students across the United States. I got the chance to attend this year's 2024 NCAN National Conference in Anaheim, CA and sat in on First Timers Meet and Greet session, hosted by NCAN’s Senior Director, Consulting Services Colette Hadley and Program Associate Alessandra Cipriani-Detres. This session served as an informative starting point for newcomers like myself to navigating the Conference landscape and connect with like-minded professionals. This event was not just an introduction; it set the tone for a collaborative and enriching experience aimed at equipping participants with knowledge, connections, and inspiration.

Understanding NCAN: Mission and Impact

At the heart of the seminar was a detailed overview of NCAN’s mission and initiatives. Founded to advocate for equitable postsecondary education, NCAN pursues its goals through three primary strategies:

1. Building Network Capabilities: NCAN invests in the professional development of leaders and practitioners by providing access to best practices and resources. This effort is crucial in enhancing the competencies necessary to support students effectively.
2. Advocating for Policy Solutions: The organization builds a case for research-based policies at both state and federal levels, aiming to create systems that facilitate affordable and accessible higher education. Empowering members to advocate for policy changes is a core component of NCAN’s mission.
3. Increasing Alignment and Collaboration: By connecting educational organizations and systems, NCAN seeks to elevate evidence-based strategies that promote degree attainment. This collaborative approach ensures that insights and strategies are shared across different sectors, fostering a unified commitment to student success.

Who Attends the NCAN Conference?

The attendee demographics at NCAN events are both diverse and indicative of the organization's broad influence. The conference draws participants from various sectors, including:

• Community-Based Organizations (37.88%)
• K-12 Education (19.70%)
• Higher Education (12.63%)
• Government (11.11%)
• Private Foundations and Research Organizations (about 5%)

With nearly 1,500 registrants from more than 540 member organizations across 53 states and territories, the conference represents a collective effort of over two million students and families. The diversity among attendees—spanning different roles from district leadership (42.9%) to direct service providers (24.74%)—enriches the discussions and learning opportunities available throughout the event.

The Importance of Networking

An essential component of the First-Timers session was the networking opportunities it provided. Attendees engaged in a brief icebreaker, turning to someone nearby to introduce themselves. This simple yet effective exercise not only eased any initial anxieties but also helped participants articulate their “why”—their motivation for being involved in college access initiatives.

Networking was further emphasized throughout the conference. With activities like NCAN's "Walk of Fame" and various social events, participants were encouraged to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and build relationships that could extend beyond the conference. Meeting NCAN staff members during breaks and workshops also offered invaluable insights into the organization and its future directions.

Planning Your Conference Experience

Navigating a conference as large as NCAN’s requires thoughtful planning. This session provided guidance on how to maximize the conference experience, including:

• Using the Cvent App: Participants were encouraged to download the conference app to register for workshops, view the full schedule, and navigate the venue efficiently. The agenda included plenary sessions, workshops, and special networking sessions, such as the Identity-Conscious Networking session. Keynote topics ranged from the Future of FAFSA to student representation and belonging, ensuring that there were sessions suited to every attendee's interests.
• Scheduled Meals and Social Events: Meals were strategically scheduled to encourage networking, with conference-provided lunches and evening receptions featuring opportunities to unwind and connect over shared experiences.

Above: Chief Finance and Special Projects Officer Sara Melnick checks attendees in (left), attendees converse (right)

Local Attractions and Relaxation

Recognizing that conferences can be intense; the organizers also highlighted the importance of relaxation and fun. Attendees were invited to explore the vibrant Downtown Disney district and the Anaheim Garden Walk, which offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. The inclusion of wellness activities, such as guided meditation and a fun run, underscored NCAN's commitment to the well-being of its participants.

Engaging with Exhibitors

The Conference also featured a diverse array of exhibitors, allowing attendees to explore new tools and resources that could enhance their work. Organizations like the National Student Clearinghouse, QuestBridge, and Common App highlighted innovative solutions designed to support college access initiatives. Collecting promotional materials and engaging with representatives allowed participants to expand their networks and gather useful resources for their organizations.

Looking Ahead: Save the Date

As the session drew to a close, the excitement for future NCAN events was palpable. Participants were reminded to mark their calendars for the 2025 NCAN National Conference, set to take place from September 8-10 in New Orleans, LA. This upcoming event promises to be especially significant, celebrating NCAN's 30th anniversary and continuing the vital conversations around college access and equity.

Conclusion

The NCAN 2024 National Conference First Timers Meet and Greet was more than just an introduction to a conference; it was a gathering of passionate individuals dedicated to transforming the landscape of college access and success. With a focus on collaboration, advocacy, and professional development, attendees left not only with new knowledge but also with a renewed sense of purpose and community. The relationships forged and the insights gained during this event will undoubtedly contribute to advancing the mission of NCAN and enhancing the support provided to students across the nation. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned participant, the upcoming events promise to continue this important work, driving meaningful change for students everywhere.

Read More:

• NCAN Announces 2024 Award of Excellence Winners in Anaheim
• NCAN Board Welcomes Three Members, Thanks Departures, Elects Officers
• College Access and Success for Justice-Impacted Students

Reading time: Four minutes

Three individuals and organizations became etched forever in the annals of college access and attainment history when the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) awarded our annual NCAN Awards of Excellence at our 2024 National Conference, which took place September 16-18 in Anaheim, CA.

These awards celebrate and recognize excellence among college attainment professionals, organizations, and partners as shown by successful student outcomes. Award winners are selected based on demonstrated evidence of student success outcomes, biographies of nominees, nomination letters, and letters of recommendation.

Member of the Year

Gary Z. Linnen accepted the Member of the Year award on behalf of PeerForward. The “Member of the Year” Award of Excellence recognizes the work of an NCAN member organization, school, college, or university to fulfill NCAN's mission of building, strengthening, and empowering communities and stakeholders to close equity gaps in postsecondary attainment for all students. 

PeerForward began as an essay writing workshop with four students in a basement in Washington, DC in 1996 has grown to be a vast network of students, in 12 states and Bermuda, empowering each other to get to and through college. It was in that basement that the fundamental idea behind this organization was born: when you train students to help each other, not even the sky’s the limit.

Since its inception, this organization has guided more than 600,000 students on their postsecondary journey. It has proven itself to be a critical member of the ecosystem of organizations working to advance opportunities for students in low-income neighborhoods, having directly assisted students, built school partner capacity, promoted policies to remove barriers for its students, and demonstrated the power of peer-to-peer methods throughout its tenure. These methods were found to not only be effective but essential for creating and sustaining a culture where everyone is expected to succeed in higher education.

Dr. David B Swedlow Professional of the Year

John Johnson, Director of Postsecondary and Alumni Affairs at University Prep Schools in Detroit, MI received the Dr. David B. Swetlow Professional of the Year award. This award recognizes the dedication, hard work, and innovation of an individual working at an NCAN member organization. Professionals at any level are eligible for this award, including advisors, counselors, program managers, and CEOs. This award was named in memory of former NCAN Director of Programs, Dr. David B. Swedlow, in honor of his commitment to college access and attainment.

Johnson has proven himself a pioneering college attainment leader and a champion for Detroit area students. As part of his commitment to creating partnerships and harnessing opportunities for his students, he has reached across state lines and collaborated with Bowling Green State University in Ohio to create Impact Academy, a summer enrichment program for 10th and 11th grade students that gives students a chance to experience college for a week on a college campus.

A dual enrollment advocate, Johnson opened an early college program in partnership with Lawrence Tech University, giving students access to both a high school diploma and an associate's degree upon graduation. During his tenure at his organization, earned dual enrollment credits have increased from 27 credits in 2019 to 327 credits in 2023.

To address a statewide teacher shortage, Johnson established a partnership with Wayne State University, not only furthering his organization’s dual enrollment initiatives, but also helping students gain internship experience as a teacher assistant and a teaching mentor to guide them in their exploration in the field.

Partner of the Year

Rutgers University – Newark was named the Partner of the Year. The award was accepted by the University’s Senior Vice Chancellor, Dr. John Gunkel. The award recognizes any partner entity that collaborates with an NCAN member organization to ensure that the organization’s students get the support they need to access and attain a postsecondary education.

Rutgers University – Newark’s reach can be felt not only in the institution’s local community in New Jersey, but statewide and across the country. Comprised of more than 13,000 students studying in six colleges and schools, this university has worked tirelessly to provide top-notch wraparound services for first-generation students, English language learners, commuter students, and students of varied racial and ethnic backgrounds.

A proud Hispanic serving institution, as designated by the US Department of Education in 2016, this year’s winner boasts a 34% Latino/a student population. The University has worked relentlessly to improve outcomes for Latino students, securing a partnership with the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, and earning a US Department of State designation as a Fulbright Hispanic Serving Institution Leader.

Understanding that education and entrepreneurship can be not only linked but integrated, the University strives for equitable growth through the Center for Urban Entrepreneurship & Economic Development (CUEED) which was created as the first center of its kind in the nation to integrate scholarly works with private capital, government, and non-profit sectors to develop citywide resources and bring renewed economic growth and vitality through urban entrepreneurship.

• Professional of the Year: $1,000
• Member of the Year: $5,000
• Partner of the Year: Free NCAN membership for Fiscal Year 2025-26

NCAN congratulate our winners and looks forward to their continued leadership and success in the field. Stay tuned next spring for information on how to nominate Award of Excellence winners for 2025, who will be announced at NCAN’s 30^th Anniversary National Conference in New Orleans, LA.

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After the National College Attainment Network's (NCAN) 2024 National Conference in Anaheim, CA earlier this month, our Board of Directors looks a little bit different. NCAN thanked three long-time board members, including an outgoing chair, for their years of dedication and service to our organization and to the college access and attainment field. NCAN also welcomed three new board members with a dedicated commitment to advancing equity and excellence within postsecondary pathways.

The new additions to NCAN’s Board of Directors include:

Alison De Lucca

Alison De Lucca is the Executive Director of the Southern California College Attainment Network (SoCal CAN). In that role, De Lucca works with 129 organizations to expand college access and completion for low-income students in the region. The network plays an important role in the field by bringing together direct service organizations to exchange effective practices, address existing service gaps, and weigh in on policies and practices that help or hinder students’ ability to smoothly reach their goal of college graduation.

De Lucca has worked on social change issues in both the United States and Central America for more than 25 years. She’s contributed to the women’s, environmental, and immigrant rights fields. Prior to joining SoCal CAN, she served as Program Officer for the Los Angeles Immigrant Funders’ Collaborative, Program Director for Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrants and Refugees, Campaign Director for Friends of the Earth International, and Women’s Micro-enterprise Developer for the Costa Rican Ecologist Association.

De Lucca graduated from University of California, San Diego with a B.A. in International Development and received her M.A. in Urban Planning from the University of California, Los Angeles. She is bilingual in English and Spanish.

Jacob Fraire

With more than 35 years of professional experience in higher education, philanthropy and public policy advocacy, Jacob Fraire became President of ECMC Foundation in February 2023. He leads the Foundation’s strategic grantmaking and investing to transform the postsecondary ecosystem and improve higher education and career outcomes for students from underserved backgrounds. Before joining the Foundation, Fraire served as director of policy and strategy for the Diana Natalicio Institute at the University of Texas at El Paso. Previously, Fraire was President and CEO of the Texas Association of Community Colleges (TACC) where he represented the presidents and chancellors of the state’s 50 public community college districts, which enroll more than 700,000 students.

Before joining TACC, Fraire served as Vice President of Philanthropy at Trellis Company (formerly Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation). As the Chief Architect of Corporate Philanthropy, Fraire stewarded $80 million in competitive grants to advance college access, need-based financial aid, student success and research. His leadership led to the creation of today’s Trellis Foundation.

The son of migrant farmworkers, Fraire grew up in El Paso, TX. He holds a B.S. from St. Edward’s University and a M.P.A. from the University of Texas at Austin.

Nick Watson

Nick Watson is a Senior Program Officer on the Education team leading on all things College Access and Success at Bloomberg Philanthropies. He brings more than 17 years of experience in admissions, college counseling and advising, career counseling and advising and program management to his work.

In his current role, Watson leads the College Access and Success portfolio which include a first of its kind free nationwide virtual college advising program, CollegePoint, which has assisted over 60,000 low-income, high-achieving students in enrolling in America's top colleges as well as the American Talent Initiative, which aims to increase the number of low-income, high-achieving students at America's top colleges. Before joining Bloomberg Philanthropies, Watson held various roles across the education sector at organizations such as KIPP DC, Northeastern University, and ScholarMatch.

He holds a Master’s of Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University and a B.A. in Communications from Purdue University.

Re-elected for additional three-year terms are:

• Caroline Altman Smith
• Jarian Kerekes
• Candy Marshall
• Ruth V. Watkins

These directors were confirmed at the Annual Membership Meeting held at conference.

Making way for the new additions were three outgoing directors with a combined 27 years of service to NCAN and our field. The departing members of the board included:

• Steve Colón, CEO, Bottom Line; outgoing Board President
• Adam Berg, Director, AEM Corporation; outgoing Board Treasurer
• Jamie Sears, Head of Community Affairs and Corporate Responsibility, UBS Americas

The Board also confirmed a new slate of officers. Catalina Cifuentes, Executive Director of College and Career Readiness, Riverside County Office of Education, moved from Vice President to President of the Board. She will be joined by:

• Caroline Altman Smith, Deputy Director, Education Program, The Kresge Foundation (Vice President)
• Bernard McCune, Senior Executive Director for Career and College Success, Denver Public Schools (Secretary)
• Braulio Colón, Executive Director, Florida College Access Network (Treasurer)

NCAN remains immensely grateful for our Board of Directors’ service to our organization and mission.

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Last week in Anaheim (CA), the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) held our largest ever National Conference. Our premiere annual event brought together over 1,500 practitioners, leaders, and advocates for four days of programming, learning, networking, and fun. From September 16-18, attendees engaged in numerous thought-provoking sessions, networking opportunities, and roundtable discussions, all aimed at addressing the challenges and opportunities within our field. Below, we break down this year’s highlights and events.

Sunday, September 15

NCAN staff arrived in California on Sunday for conference set-up and orientation. We were joined by attendees of our pre-conference event “Navigating College Attainment with Neurodiverse Students – From Transition to Transformation.” At this session, experts from Beacon College provided a conceptual framework and practical strategies for supporting neurodiverse students on their journey to and through college. The session’s goal addressed the significant gap between diagnosed neurodiverse students who make up 12% of the nation’s K-12 population but account for less than 4% of college students.

Monday, September 16

The conference *officially* kicked off with an inspiring opening plenary session, featuring remarks from NCAN CEO Kim Cook and now-former NCAN Board President Steve Colón, who announced he was stepping down after nine years of service. In his remarks, Colón encouraged “brave hearts to the front” after a challenging year filled with Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) issues and fallout from the end of race-conscious admissions, among other things. Plenary attendees also heard from Carlos Ojeda Jr., President and CEO of CoolSpeak, a renowned speaker and advocate for educational equity. His emotional presentation set the tone for the conference by encouraging attendees to “fight forward,” emphasizing the importance of resilience and leadership in the ongoing fight to improve educational outcomes for underserved communities.

Following the keynote, the day continued with several breakout sessions focusing on a variety of topics, such as:

• Beltway Buzz: NCAN staff discussed student debt cancellation, the Better FAFSA rollout, increasing funding for Pell Grants, and much more in this policy-focused session.
• Effective Student Coaching – More Important than Ever in a Post-Affirmative Action World: Experts discussed the impact on students and college admissions practices of the Supreme Court’s decision to end race-conscious admissions, also known as affirmative action.
• How the Nation’s Fourth-Largest District Reimagined Postsecondary Advising: Experts from Chicago Public Schools (CPS) discussed how CPS used data and an equity lens to reimagine the district’s approach to college access, career preparation, and alumni support.

At lunchtime, NCAN presented longtime member PeerForward with our 2024 Member of the Year Award in recognition of fulfilling NCAN’s mission of building, strengthening, and empowering communities and stakeholders to close equity gaps in postsecondary attainment for all students. Gary Linnen, PeerForward’s CEO, accepted the award on behalf of his organization.

Immediately following lunch, NCAN CEO Kim Cook joined experts from the Office of Federal Student Aid Linnea Hengst, Jeremy Singer, and Melanie Storey for the afternoon plenary session titled “The Future of FAFSA.” Panelists discussed the state of the FAFSA and what the field can expect in the next financial aid award year cycle. During the session, Singer praised the contributions of NCAN and our members throughout the challenges with the FAFSA over the past few years. “NCAN and their members have their ears to the ground, and NCAN does a wonderful job of surfacing what they hear and making it real,” said Singer. “The feedback you provide is critical”

The first day also featured our Annual Membership Meeting and a first-time conference attendee session, allowing participants to connect with peers and learn about what NCAN’s work as of late.

Day one wrapped up on a fun note with our opening reception, which featured both a live DJ and a mariachi band in honor of Mexican Independence Day!

Tuesday, September 17

Day two began early with a mix of wellness and networking events. NCAN Senior Director Catherine Brown led a wellness run, while DreamCatcher Curriculum facilitated a guided meditation session. Meanwhile, a buffet breakfast and identity-conscious networking sessions allowed participants to connect with fellow attendees.

Tuesday morning’s plenary session, titled “Achieving Postsecondary Equity in California,” featured:

• Daisy Gonzales, Executive Director at the California Student Aid Commission
• Christopher Nellum, Executive Director at The Education Trust – West
• Randal Tillery, Director, Postsecondary Pathways and Career Mobility at WestEd, and
• Jessie Ryan, President of the Campaign for College Opportunity

Panelists discussed California’s bold initiatives to achieve postsecondary equity and put college within reach for all residents. Discussion focused on the state’s multifaceted approach to making college affordable and addressing disparities in higher education.

Other Tuesday sessions included:

• Strategies for Tackling College Student Food Insecurity: Experts discussed how to close the college hunger gap on all levels using SNAP, also known as food stamps.
• The Power of Partnership – Building a Postsecondary Access to Success Advising System: This session emphasized the use of data analytics to track student progress, identify at-risk students, and inform interventions.
• The College Comeback – Strategies to Get Students Back on the Postsecondary Path: This session focused on three organizations that are reengaging students who have stopped out of college and how to effectively support returning students.

At lunch, NCAN presented our 2024 Partner of the Year and Professional of the Year Awards to Rutgers University – Newark and John Johnson of University Prep Schools (Detroit, MI), respectively.

Lunch was followed by our classic Lightning Talks, which this year featured speakers Marquise Dixon, CEO of Degrees of Change, Chandra Scott, Executive Director of Alabama Possible, and Irene Quevedo, CEO of Operation Jump Start. These three leaders delivered powerful, motivational talks on prioritizing the representation and belonging for students of color in higher education.

The afternoon was dedicated to additional sessions where attendees could delve deeper into specific topics, such as:

• Financial Aid Offers – Best Practices to Delivering Transparency and Clarity for Students: Practical tools and resources for helping students and their families understand financial aid, budgeting, and student loans.
• Standard of Support for Students with Learning Differences: Best practices for creating inclusive environments and providing accommodations in both K-12 and postsecondary settings.

Wednesday, September 18

The final day of #NCAN2024 began with three spotlight sessions focused on diverse topics: defending diversity in higher education, making the economic case that college is worth the price, and redefining career and equity pathways.

At the closing plenary, moderator Jarian Kerekes, President of the Equitable Foundation, was joined by students Yvette Hernandez, a UC Berkley alumna, Stalia Cerezo Perez, a UC Davis alumna, and Joshua Campos Velasquez, senior at the University of Southern California. The discussion focused on the benefits of expanding student supports and a key theme highlighted by all three students was how critical the support of college access organizations was to instilling confidence and providing guidance.

NCAN closed out this year’s event with “Data as a Roadmap to Access and Attainment,” a post-conference session that demonstrated how to use data from the National Student Clearinghouse StudentTracker platform, FAFSA completion data, and student feedback surveys to effectively advise students on their postsecondary pathways.

NCAN would like to thank all our members, conference attendees, sponsors, exhibitors, staff, and vendors for making this year’s event a success! We know that many of you traveled far to participate, and we are grateful for your efforts. We’ll see you next year, September 8-10, for our 30th Anniversary 2025 National Conference in New Orleans, LA!

Want to relive #NCAN2024? Check out the photos and videos here or watch the video below.

Read More:

• Student Voices Show Benefits of Expanding Student Supports
• NCAN Members Lead the Way in the Push for College Affordability
• Conference Topic Roundup: Learning Differences