Building Connection through Effective Networks
The 2025 National College Attainment Network (NCAN) National Conference in New Orleans this month brought together thousands of postsecondary access and success practitioners, leaders, and advocates for networking, learning, and knowledge-sharing.
The more than 60 sessions included an address from Louisiana’s Commissioner of Higher Education, Dr. Kim Hunter Reed; presentations on federal student aid and how to engage rural students; and a closing plenary with a student panel.
MHEC welcomed more than 60 people to its networking breaking during the conference, which provided intentional space for Midwest attendees to meet and learn from each other and to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in the region. MHEC awarded 24 travel scholarships to individuals in 10 MHEC membership states.
“This conference is a terrific way to connect with peers in the college attainment space to learn about best practices and increase postsecondary access and success,” says Carrie Wandler, senior director of policy initiatives at MHEC. “We are pleased to be able to support leaders in our region in attending this important gathering.”