Aftermath of the 2026 Mid-Term Elections. Where Does Higher Education Go from Here?
As higher education faces elusive expectations and shifting laws, finding direction and forging connections becomes more important than ever.
Moderated by CIC President Marjorie Hass, this closing plenary panel convenes policy experts and campus leaders just days after the election to decode what the ever-transforming landscape of congressional dynamics means for independent higher education.
Panelists will explore challenges facing our sector which impact not just higher education but society. How do we obtain and maintain federal government grants while sustaining the vitality of research in independent institutions? Does the analysis of the current regulatory environment herald future challenges or opportunities? What potential scenarios may emerge from changes to the chambers of Congress?
We’ll discuss these questions and more during this candid conversation on the intersection between higher education and governmental regulation. Time will also be included for Q&A.
Panelists
Rachel Bowser, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College, Agnes Scott College (GA)
John McAllister, Managing Partner, McAllister & Quinn
Tim Powers, Vice President for Government Relations and Policy Development, National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU)
Moderator
Marjorie Hass, President, CIC