Council for Opportunity in Education

Conferences & Events

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Learn more about how the Council for Opportunity in Education works in conjunction with colleges, universities, and agencies to help low-income students enter college and graduate.

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POLICY SEMINAR 2025

TRIO has never faced a larger challenge. We need to defend our programs.

The incoming administration has openly targeted education generally and TRIO, in particular, through past budget proposals, which would have eliminated entire programs and shifted TRIO to block grant funding to the states. During the 2025 Policy Seminar, you’ll have the chance to join forces with TRIO alumni, professionals, and advocates nationwide. This event includes our Leadership Summit, Seminar on Relations with the U.S. Department of Education, and Legislative Conference—a powerful lineup designed to prepare you to advocate fiercely for TRIO. Download the paper registration form here.

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TRIO currently faces challenges from numerous fronts. Today’s leadership needs to be poised and ready to take the necessary action to address these challenges. Whether you are new to TRIO or a seasoned professional, this day of engagement will be solutions-focused, addressing issues that TRIO practitioners, programs, and state chapters face. With 60 years of history to draw from and innovative leaders at the helm, we invite you to join this change-making space to contribute to the future of TRIO programs, campus impact, state advocacy, and national success. If you have questions about the Leadership Summit, please contact Jen Rudolph at [email protected].

In this moment of urgent need, let us unite to defend the future of TRIO. Your voice in Washington matters. We urge you to join us and ensure that TRIO remains a lifeline for those who need it most. This seminar provides information about the following: • U.S. Department of Educational fiscal and programmatic policies and reporting requirements • The latest information on TRIO regulations and • The outlook for upcoming TRIO grant competitions. For questions about the Seminar on Relations with the U.S. Department of Education, please contact Angelica Vialpando at [email protected].

COE uniquely advocates for low-income, first-generation students and students with disabilities in policy meetings. On January 3, 2025, the 119th Congress begins, bringing many new Members of Congress. It’s crucial for the TRIO community to “walk the Hill” to educate Congress on the history and impact of Federal TRIO Programs. Conference participants will receive advocacy training to prepare for these Congressional visits. IMPORTANT NOTE: All congressional meetings will be held in person on Capitol Hill. If you have any questions, please contact Diane Shust at [email protected] or Owen Toomey at [email protected].

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Advocacy Update

Building a Strong Foundation for TRIO in the 119th Congress

Owen ToomeyJanuary 17, 2025

The 119th Congress officially began at noon on January 3. In the House of Representatives, Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) was re-elected Speaker. On January 6, both chambers of Congress certified President-elect Trump’s victory without fanfare.Republican leadership is still charting the path forward for the 119th Congress. However, priorities for the first few months include passing…

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