You’re Invited! Join us for the 2026 NYS College Access Conference

Dear Colleagues,

The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) is excited to announce that registration is now open for the first NYS College Access Conference!

HESC, along with our partners, the State University of New York, the City University of New York, and the NYS Education Department, invites you to Albany for a day of collaboration, learning, and celebration. As the financial aid landscape continues to evolve, the opportunity to come together and share best practices has never been more important.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, March 12, 2026
Location: Albany Capital Center, Albany, NY
Cost: Free (space is limited, register early!)

Designed for high school counselors, financial aid professionals, and college access partners, this one-day, in-person conference will equip you with actionable strategies to increase FAFSA and TAP completion rates and better support students as they navigate pathways to higher education.

Conference Highlights:

Best-selling author and speaker Harlan Cohen will deliver insights on student transition and success.
Expert-led sessions on critical financial aid topics and access strategies.
Awards Luncheon celebrating the individuals and organizations making a meaningful difference in expanding college access.

Register Now to Secure Your Spot!

Call for Nominations! 

Do you know a champion of college access? We are accepting nominations for outstanding individuals, community-based organizations, and academic partners to be honored during the conference awards ceremony. Among the categories is the Dr. Guillermo Linares Leadership Award, which recognizes an exceptional leader who shares his commitment to expanding access and equity in education. Review all four categories and submit a nomination here.

We look forward to welcoming you to Albany this March!

Sincerely,

New York State Higher Education Services Corporation