Preliminary Program
Sessions are open to all registered Annual Meeting attendees unless noted.
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Noon - 6:00 p.m.
Registration
Sponsored by
2:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Government Relations Academy (Preconference Session)
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Advocacy Amidst Upheaval
The new 119th Congress represents a sea change in Washington, with Republican control over both chambers of Congress and the White House. This session is designed to give campus leaders an overview of the major higher education issues on the agenda of Congress and the Administration, followed by “hot topic” sessions delving further into specific policy issues.
SPEAKERS:
Jody Feder, J.D., Director of Accountability and Regulatory Affairs, NAICU
Stephanie T. Giesecke, Assistant Vice President for Government Relations, NAICU
Karin L. Johns, Director of Tax Policy, NAICU
Justin Monk, Director of Student and Institutional Aid Policy, NAICU
Suzanne Stokes Vieth, Director of State Relations and Outreach, NAICU
3:00 - 4:15 p.m.
Hot Topic Concurrent Sessions
Dive into greater detail on policies that could impact your campus by choosing two mini-sessions. Conversations will include policy or campus experts and members of the NAICU Government Relations Team.
(Choose one session in each time block)
3:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Hot Topics Session I
Challenges for International Students Studying at U.S. Colleges and Universities
The new administration in Washington promised changes to the nation’s immigration policies. What are the implications of the proposed policies for international education and foreign students studying at U.S. colleges and universities?
SPEAKERS:
Karin Johns, Director of Tax Policy, NAICU
Dianne Miller, Senior Director, Federal Relations, Cornell University (NY)
The Financial Implications of Congressional Risk Sharing
The College Cost Reduction Act contains risk-sharing proposals with significant financial implications for independent colleges and universities. Learn about the bill’s underlying formulas for determining the financial impact and how to talk with your Members of Congress about the hardship these proposals pose.
SPEAKERS:
Jenna Colvin, President, Georgia Independent College Association
Justin Monk, Director of Student and Institutional Aid Policy, NAICU
Federal Student Aid Funding
Two fiscal years of federal student aid funding will be determined in the first session of the 119th Congress as it considers final appropriations for fiscal year 2025 and starts the 2026 fiscal year budget process. Hear how funding for Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Work-Study and other programs may be affected.
SPEAKERS:
Stephanie T. Giesecke, Assistant Vice President for Government Relations, NAICU
Robyn Hiestand, Vice President, Bose Public Affairs Group
3:45 - 4:15 p.m.
Hot Topics Session II
Department of Education: Can It Be Abolished?
President-elect Donald Trump campaigned on eliminating the Department of Education. What would such a policy change entail? Will Congress agree? What will happen to federal student financial aid? Find out the answers to these questions and more about the future of the Department.
What Is Reconciliation and Why Does It Matter?
Budget experts will provide an overview of the congressional budget reconciliation process, including how the new majority may use this tool to reshape federal higher education policy.
SPEAKERS:
Stephanie T. Giesecke, Assistant Vice President for Government Relations, NAICU
Robyn Hiestand, Vice President, Bose Public Affairs Group
Challenges for International Students Studying at U.S. Colleges and Universities
The new administration in Washington promised changes to the nation’s immigration policies. What are the implications for international education and foreign students studying at U.S. colleges and universities?
SPEAKERS:
Karin Johns, Director of Tax Policy, NAICU
Dianne Miller, Senior Director, Federal Relations, Cornell University (NY)
4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Making Government Relations Work For—and On—Your Campus
In these turbulent times, advocacy at the federal and state levels is more important than ever. Successful advocacy requires a commitment at the campus level. Learn about the different models independent colleges and universities use to manage their relationships with elected officials.
5:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Government Relations Academy Reception
Government Relations Academy attendees are invited to a special reception and meet and greet to network with colleagues old and new. Enjoy a drink and snacks after an afternoon of meetings.
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Welcome Reception
After a day of travel or the first afternoon of meetings, unwind and network with friends and colleagues, while enjoying an array of delicious food and drink.
Monday, February 3, 2025
7:30 - 8:15 a.m.
NAICUSE Executive Committee Meeting
Closed Session for Committee Members Only
7:30 - 8:30 a.m.
NAICUSE Breakfast Buffet
Closed Sessions for State Executives and Staff Members
7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Registration
Sponsored by
8:30 a.m. - Noon
NAICUSE Meeting
Closed Session for State Executives and Staff Members
8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Coffee Break
9:00 – 9:45 a.m.
Plenary Session I
Building a Leadership Team that can Navigate Uncertain Times
During times of significant change and challenge, such as those facing private, nonprofit higher education today, it is critical for a president and their leadership team to be unified and focused on what matters most. While a president cannot control the effects of external forces on their institution, research suggests that they can prepare their leadership team to navigate together obstacles, threats, and crises in a way that strengthens their sense of team leading to higher levels of performance.
This session will review the findings from a study of two highly-rated senior leadership teams as they navigated the COVID crisis and reveal which of the eight key elements of Senior Leadership teams were most prominently identified among the perceptions and experiences of team members.
While the challenges facing higher education will continue to evolve, the foundation addressing and overcoming them begins by establishing and investing in unified and effective leadership teams who can creatively and collaboratively overcome whatever is around the next corner.
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Plenary Session II
11:00 - 11:45 a.m.
Plenary Session III
2025 Tax Bill: Risks for Independent Colleges and Universities
Several key provisions of the 2018 tax bill expire in 2025, requiring Congress to take up new legislation. Give campaign promises to end taxes on tips and social security, Congress will be looking for ways to pay for new tax breaks. Among the targets could be an increase in the endowment tax, both raising rate and lowering the threshold to include more endowments. A new tax on nonprofit organizations such as hospitals and colleges also is possible. A Washington insider will provide insight on the political environment and the potential impact of a tax overhaul in 2025.
11:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.
Monday Luncheon & Lecture
11:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.
NAICUSE Luncheon
Closed Session for State Executives and Staff Members
Noon - 1:15 p.m.
NAICU Board of Directors Meeting
Closed Session for Board Members
1:30 - 1:45 p.m.
Coffee Break
1:30 - 2:00 p.m.
Plenary Session IV
A Conversation with Rep. Tom Walberg (R-MI)
Hear directly from the new chair of the House Committee on Education the Workforce regarding his views on the state of higher education, federal student aid programs, and the future of the Department of Education.
SPEAKER:
Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), Incoming Chair of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce
2:00 - 2:45 p.m.
Plenary Session V:
Beyond the Headlines: What Americans Really Think About Higher Education
Media coverage of national polling and data trends about the perceptions of higher education has included click-worthy headlines and resulted in discussions about whether Americans still value a degree and the college experience. But are the headlines and stories accurate? Do they tell the complete story? What is the full picture that national data are revealing about how Americans perceive and value higher education and what are the implications for colleges and universities?
SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Marken, Senior Partner, Gallup
Constance Ledoux Book, President, Elon University (NC)
2:45 - 3:30 p.m.
Plenary Session VI
Crystal Ball: Understanding the Current Political Environment
Jonathan Martin, among the most trusted political reporters in Washington, will reflect on the political landscape moving forward following the historic 2024 election. What are the implications for higher education, for policy setting, and effective advocacy in today’s divisive climate? Can bipartisan work still happen, and if so – where?
SPEAKER:
Jonathan Martin, Politics Bureau Chief and Senior Political Columnist, POLITICO
3:30 - 3:45 p.m.
Afternoon Break
3:45 – 4:45 p.m.
Plenary Session VII
Outlook from Capitol Hill
Join us for a discussion with a bipartisan panel of key Hill staff on the House and Senate education committees. Get the inside scoop on their policy views, the bills they are writing, and their current perspectives on colleges and universities.
4:45 - 5:30 p.m.
Plenary Session VIII
Applying the Advocacy Mindset to Hill Meetings
Prepare for your Advocacy Day visits to Capitol Hill with this overview session on the most pressing issues facing independent higher education and how to talk about them with your members of Congress. NAICU’s Sarah Flanagan will discuss the key issues, review talking points and leave behind materials and help attendees develop their advocacy mindset.
SPEAKER:
Sarah A. Flanagan, Vice President for Government Relations and
Policy Development, NAICU
6:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Leadership Reception
By Invitation Only
Current or past members of our national board and committee leadership are cordially invited to a Special Reception hosted by NAICU President Barbara K. Mistick, D.B.A, and 2024-25 Board Chair Mary Dana Hinton, Ph.D., president of Hollins University (VA), Join us as we salute you for your leadership and support of NAICU and your efforts on behalf of all private, nonprofit higher education.
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
NAICU Reception
After a full day of meetings, join your friends and colleagues while enjoying a delicious array of food and drink.
Sponsored by:
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Registration
Sponsored by
7:30 - 8:30 a.m.
Continental Breakfast
8:00 - 8:45 a.m.
Sponsored by:
Short Course I: Funding Academics by Building a Grant Culture
Harnessing a robust campus-wide grant culture will lead to the successful pursuit of significant grants that can drive positive institutional change. We assert that there are three phases to building a successful campus-wide grant culture: Individual, Community, and Institutional. Whereas the first two initiate collaboration among faculty, the Institutional phase creates a sustainable grant culture embedded in institutional memory. This presentation discusses the complementary features of the three phases, presents a clear picture of how they grow simultaneously, how they enhance the institution’s profile, and how they support the fiscal health of the institution.
SPEAKERS:
Eugene Fiorini, CEO of Fiorini & Associates
Jack Jarmon, CFO and Senior Consultant, Fiorini & Associates
Short Course II: Unshaken: Courageous Leadership and Advocacy in Turbulent Times
Advocacy is the public support for a cause, and few causes are more vital than championing the critical role of 4-year private institutions in higher education. These institutions serve as pillars of opportunity and innovation, driven by an unwavering mission to ensure student success. But in an era marked by political uncertainty and societal upheaval, fulfilling this mission requires more than determination—it demands courageous leadership.
In this session, we’ll share insights from interviews with presidents of 4-year institutions, offering a compelling look at their perspectives on advocacy and leadership amidst today’s challenges. Explore how these leaders inspire their campuses, foster collaboration, drive innovation, and take bold action to champion the transformative power of private higher education. Issuing a clear and urgent call to action: the courage to inspire, innovate, advocate, act, and persevere.
Attendees will leave with actionable strategies and renewed resolve to lead and advocate fearlessly for the future of their institutions and the students they serve.
Short Course III: Strategically Preparing for a Second Trump Administration
During the 2024 presidential campaign, the President elect spoke of reforms that, if enacted, would impose significant financial and regulatory changes to higher education institutions. While precise policies are yet to be unveiled, there is growing clarity on key areas of focus, including:
• elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives
• reductions and/or conditional restrictions to federal student aid
• adjustments to research funding and/or reduced F&A cost recovery
• accreditation reform
• limits on international student and faculty visas
• revised Title IX regulations
• renewed focus on workforce and skill-based training
These priorities, along with existing challenges, require immediate action.
9:00 - 9:15 a.m.
Presentation of the 2024 Advocacy Award
9:30 - 10:45 a.m.
Plenary Session IX
Navigating the Political Divide on Campus
Students and faculty; Democrats and Republicans; progressives, liberals, moderates and conservatives – how do you get so many perspectives to coexist on your campus? Navigating the campus culture minefield is both complex and time consuming. A panel of current presidents will discuss their approaches to building campus culture of respect and unity despite political differences.
11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Advocacy Day Visits to Capitol Hill
Attendees are invited to spend the day meeting with members of their congressional delegation. Check with your state executive regarding scheduling for group visits.
11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Advocacy Day Debrief Center
Do you have key takeaways from your Capitol Hill conversations to pass onto NAICU staff? Can NAICU help with any follow-up you need to do with your Members of Congress? Or, do you just want to put up your feet in between meetings? NAICU’s Government Relations Team is ready to listen and help. Refreshments will be available.
Top of the Hill Banquet & Conference Center
Fourth Floor Symposium Room
Reserve Officers Association of the United States Building
First Street and Constitution Avenue, NE, Washington, DC
Refreshments Sponsored by
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Ninth Annual Reception for the Congressional Independent Colleges Caucus (CICC)
You are cordially invited to attend a reception for the Congressional Independent Colleges Caucus (CICC). The Caucus is focused on celebrating the contributions independent colleges and universities make to the educational, intellectual, economic, social and cultural life of our nation. Refreshments will be available.
Top of the Hill Banquet & Conference Center
Fifth Floor Ballroom
Reserve Officers Association of the United States Building
First Street and Constitution Avenue, NE, Washington, DC
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
7:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Registration
Sponsored by
7:30 - 8:45 a.m.
Annual Meeting Breakfast
9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Plenary Session X
A New Era for Accreditation
During the presidential campaign, President-elect Donald Trump and congressional Republicans vowed to deny federal funding to “woke” institutions by “firing” their accreditors, and similar attacks have been directed at accrediting agencies that promote DEI policies or otherwise are seen as too liberal. What do these criticisms mean for accreditation going forward? Join us for a panel discussion that will examine some of the policy proposals on the table and their potential impact on the future of accreditation.
SPEAKERS:
Jan Friss, J.D., Vice President for Government Affairs, Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Dottie King, Ph.D., President and CEO, Independent Colleges of Indiana
10:15 - 11:15 a.m,
Plenary Session XI
Engaging Your Governing Board in Your Advocacy Initiatives
Governing board members can be effective ambassadors for campuses with both state legislators and members of congress. But how do you engage board members on political, regulatory or policy issues? What do they need to understand to successfully advocate for your campus. How can you utilize their relationships with elected officials? A panel of campus presidents will discuss how to encourage board members to be ambassadors, capitalize on their connections, and optimize those relationships on behalf of your institution.
11:15 - 11:45 a.m.
NAICU Annual Business Meeting
Agenda includes: Approval of the proposed 2024-25 Estimated Revenues from Membership Dues and Budget and ratification of the Policy Statement for the 119th Congress.
SPEAKERS:
Mary Dana Hinton Ph.D., President, Hollins University (VA), and 2024-25 Chair of the NAICU Board of Directors
Robert L. Manuel Ph.D., President, DePaul University (IL), and 2024-25 Vice Chair of the NAICU Board of Directors
Marjorie Hass, Ph.D., President, The Council on Independent Colleges (CIC)
Barbara K. Mistick, D.B.A., President, NAICU
11:45 a.m.