NEW: Your Fall 2026 TRIO Advocacy Action Guide Is Here
The next few months will be critical for the future of TRIO—and every voice matters.
COE’s new Fall 2026 Advocacy Action Guide gives you the information, messages, and ready-to-use tools you need to engage your Members of Congress this fall. With Congress working toward final FY27 funding decisions, the guide centers on three priorities identified by COE: protecting TRIO’s mission, structure, and current grantee base; securing $33 million in supplemental funding for Talent Search and Educational Opportunity Centers; and urging Congress to address the Department of Education’s proposed changes to EDGAR. The Recess Action Guide includes practical resources to help you confidently plan and execute effective advocacy activities, including:
- A message from COE President Kimberly Jones outlining this year’s advocacy priorities.
- A customizable congressional meeting invitation letter.
- Step-by-step guidance for planning, conducting, and following up after congressional visits.
- A proven advocacy roadmap and sample meeting agenda.
- Real-world examples of successful TRIO advocacy from across the country.
- An up-to-date list of Congressional TRIO Caucus members and bipartisan champions.
- Tips for strengthening long-term relationships with your elected officials.
Building TRIO Champions on Capitol Hill
TRIO programs transform lives by expanding access to higher education for low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented students. Congressional outreach is a critical strategy to ensure policymakers understand—and continue to invest in—this impact.
Identify your congressmembers
FIND YOUR MEMBERS
Send an invitation
Turn awareness into advocacy
Plan the visit
Design a High-Impact Visit