ACE president and chancellors kicked off the
ACE Experience 2026 (ACEx2026) today by participating in ACE on the Hill, a day of advocacy to elevate the sector’s voice on the most pressing issues facing colleges and universities.
Presidents and chancellors from 17 states gathered to hear from policy experts, exchange advocacy strategies, and align on key messages before heading into meetings with dozens of congressional offices. The morning carried a blend of urgency and resolve as ACE President Ted Mitchell rallied attendees ahead of a full day on Capitol Hill.
“There’s really nothing more important at this moment than having higher education’s views and values being transmitted to members of the legislature,” Mitchell said. “The work you’re doing today is super important.”
ACE President Ted Mitchell and Thomas Bailey president of Teachers College, Columbia University .
Presidents and chancellors then dove into strategy, sharing lessons from past engagements with lawmakers and sharpening their approach on issues including federal funding, impending changes to student loan programs, and policies affecting international students.
“Educational institutions bring so much to our country and our neighbors” said Aron Sousa, Rosalind Franklin University president and CEO. “I think it’s important for leaders to talk with our legislators and their staff about the value of higher education.”
To wrap up the morning, a panel of congressional education staff offered insight into legislative priorities and fielded questions, giving participants a candid look at the dynamics shaping higher education policy debates.
Armed with those insights, attendees fanned out across Capitol Hill their meetings with lawmakers and staff, ready to underscore the real-world impact of federal decisions on campuses and communities nationwide.
Participants reconvened in the afternoon to debrief before heading to the ACEx2026 Welcome Reception, carrying forward a day defined by collaboration, clarity, and a shared commitment to advancing higher education.
Tom Stritikus, president of Occidental College talks with Jon Fansmith, ACE's senior vice president for Government Relations and National Engagement.