College Promise’s 10th Anniversary Symposium & Careers Institute

Where: San Antonio, TX

Who Should Attend:

College Promise Leaders ready to expand their impact beyond traditional students
Industry Leaders seeking proven talent pipeline solutions
Philanthropists looking for scalable models that deliver measurable outcomes
Policy Makers designing workforce development strategies
Students and Career Changers who need skills that lead to real opportunities

Today, every hardworking American still aspires to achieve the American Dream — and together, College Promise programs are building the pathways to make it possible. As innovation transforms our economy through AI, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and emerging technologies, the demand for adaptable, skilled talent is growing. At the same time, the rising cost of college challenges our commitment to access and opportunity. That’s why this convening is dedicated to the future: ensuring that education and workforce systems evolve in tandem so that students, families, and communities are equipped not only to keep up, but to lead.

The future of work requires new approaches to education and training. States are being called on to do more to prepare tomorrow’s workforce, while employers must invest in upskilling and reskilling to stay competitive. To meet the moment, our education and financing systems must evolve to support lifelong learning — with public, private, and philanthropic partners working together to ensure every American can access opportunity and thrive in a changing economy.

The College Promise movement has stood as a guiding force for opportunity, a nonpartisan, community-rooted effort that has grown to over 450 programs nationwide. Deeply responsive to local and regional cultures and needs, Promise initiatives have delivered measurable results and fed the U.S. talent pipeline. With states taking on a growing role in workforce development, Promise is more essential than ever. As we celebrate our 10th Anniversary, we invite you to join us—let's honor our shared achievements and co-create the next decade of innovation, equity, and opportunity.

Why This Matters Now: The convergence of workforce disruption, AI transformation, and funding uncertainty creates both crisis and opportunity. Promise Programs that can adapt, demonstrate clear value, and build strategic partnerships won't just survive—they'll become essential community infrastructure. The question is: how do we scale these solutions when the old playbook no longer works?

What to Expect:

A national celebration of 10 years of College Promise, honoring the students, leaders, and communities who’ve shaped the movement
Financial reality check from business and philanthropy leaders on the evolving funding landscape
Workforce Pell preparation strategies for maximizing the upcoming expansion of short-term credential funding
Innovative financing models, including income-share agreements and employer partnerships
Career navigation lessons from athletes and professionals who've successfully reinvented themselves
AI and future skills frameworks for preparing learners for rapidly changing work
A spotlight on Texas, highlighting the Alamo Promise and the power of strategic partnerships and lifelong learning
Collaborative visioning to design the next decade of Promise programs

Early bird pricing ends September 8.

Hotel Recommendation:

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Brooks Hotel & Spa

7610 South New Braunfels, San Antonio, Texas, 78235

Call to Action: Promise Program Stories

As part of our year-long anniversary campaign, we want to highlight the stories that make the Promise movement so powerful. We invite Promise programs across the country to submit video or photo entries showcasing your students, staff, and communities. Selected entries will be featured in our anniversary celebrations, including the 10th Anniversary and Careers Institute, publications, social media, and across the national College Promise network.

📸🎥 Submit Your Photos or Videos Here by September 15.

For questions, please contact Michelle Cooper at michelle@collegepromise.org