During Spring Break of 2025, TRiO interns from Haskell Indian Nations University had the unique opportunity to step into the world of policy and advocacy at the annual Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) Policy Seminar in Washington, D.C. This event is one of the most important gatherings for TRiO programs nationwide, bringing together students and staff to protect the future of federally funded educational opportunity programs.
For the students, it all began with stepping off the plane into the heart of the nation’s capital. Between scheduled meetings, they explored historic sites like the Lincoln Memorial and the National Mall, visited museums, and toured graduate schools, experiences that brought history and their own futures to life.
“My time at policy was honestly one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had. Meeting TRiO students from all over, hearing their stories, whether they took a traditional path or not, helped me see just how powerful and wide-reaching TRiO really is. It’s a program that feels like family. That feeling of community was so real, and it made me proud to be part of something bigger. I shared my story, but also thought about the kids back on my reservation who don’t always have access to opportunities like I did. As a first-generation student, I had to figure out everything on my own from applying to college to navigating campus life. TRiO was my guide and support system through it all, shaping me into the young woman I am today. With everything happening in the world right now, I’m grateful my peers and I could stand together to advocate for TRiO here at Haskell. We spoke up because we believe in this program and want the next generation to have the same chances and even more than we have. That’s why this trip meant so much to me: it wasn’t just about me, but about the future of our communities and the students who will come after us,” shared Angelina Giago
As the seminar began, TRiO students from across the nation gathered to connect, learn, and prepare for the main event meetings with congressional leaders. They sat down with lawmakers, explained how TRiO programs shaped their college journeys, and spoke up for the next generation of students who deserve the same opportunities.
“This year’s annual Policy Seminar was not like any other; it was the biggest attendance I’ve ever seen for any conference: 900 TRiO professionals and students! Knowing that this many people are motivated to continue to inspire change is beyond surreal. My time in D.C. was impeccable, from the beautiful monuments to an amazing night tour of D.C. This year tops last year’s policy conference in an amazing way, from seeing more people like me, a TRiO participant, to alumni, those who’ve gone through it all. I look forward to continuing my advocacy for the program that has done so much for me already, especially in a troubling administration whose eyes are set on dismantling the TRiO programs within the Department of Education. I look forward to going back for my third year in the spring of 2026,” shared TRiO intern Troy Begay.
They weren’t alone in this work. Hundreds of students and TRiO staff from colleges and universities across the country met on Capitol Hill, forming a united front to show just how many lives these programs touch. That collective energy made it clear: TRiO is a movement rooted in student success and will keep advocating!
“I truly appreciated the visit to Policy in D.C. With everything going on in the political world, it’s scary, but it’s also time to advocate for the TRiO programs. It’s taught me not to be passive but rather to utilize my voice and advocate for these programs so other students can be as fortunate as I, while attending school. I had a great time and learned a lot during the conference. I’m grateful for the opportunities given to me through TRiO, traveling to see the historical museums in D.C., and preparing to rally on Capitol Hill to speak with our congressional associates. Having the opportunity to visit graduate schools like Georgetown was outstanding. It was a huge campus. I never thought of attending graduate school, but now I know it’s possible,” said TRiO intern and recent graduate Jamie Howard.
By the end of the week, the interns left D.C. with a deeper understanding of how policy decisions shape students’ lives and a renewed commitment to keep advocating for TRiO programs long after they returned home.
We hope our congressional leaders continue to stand with TRiO and support our mission: helping students from every background access higher education, succeed, and create change in their communities.
