Higher Aspirations, Stronger Bridges

Femi Stoltz, Massachusetts Policy Director | uAspire
Room: Wexner 434 AB

This session will examine collaborative strategies to expand college access, strengthen financial aid support, and build sustainable partnerships that help students and families navigate pathways to higher education and HBCU opportunities. Participants will explore practical approaches for connecting resources, strengthening advising, and creating stronger bridges between students, families, schools, and HBCU partners.

Workshop: Advancing Student Achievement — PV CARES Student Success Model

John Gardner, Associate Vice President for Student Success, Prairie View A&M University
Room: Allison Dining Room

An interactive exploration of Prairie View A&M University’s student-centered approach to persistence and achievement. Participants will examine advising, early-alert systems, data-informed interventions, career readiness, financial counseling, and cross-campus collaboration strategies designed to support students from enrollment through graduation.

Workshop: The HBCU Enrollment Paradox — Rising Demand, Uneven Growth

Dominique Harrison,  Director of Undergraduate Admissions at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University  
Chelsea Holley, Director of Admissions at Spelman College
Room: Nye A, B & C

HBCU enrollment is experiencing renewed momentum, but growth is not occurring uniformly across institutions. This session will examine the factors driving these shifts—from increased application volume and selectivity to continued enrollment challenges—and explore what they mean for HBCUs, students, and college access professionals. Enrollment leaders will also discuss how counselors can help students navigate an increasingly dynamic HBCU admissions landscape.