The Future Economy Runs Through HBCUs

Hosted by the Black Legislative Leaders Network & Sponsored by the Lumina Foundation

From shared priorities to legislative action.

HBCUs educate talent, advance research, preserve culture, and create opportunity. Their future deserves a coordinated legislative strategy—and leaders ready to carry it forward.

Join the Black Legislative Leaders Network for a two-day convening bringing together Black state legislative leaders, HBCU legislative caucus members, college and university presidents, government relations teams, and strategic partners to help shape the 2027 HBCU policy agenda.

Together, we will connect priorities across state capitols and Washington, strengthen HBCU legislative caucuses, and develop practical strategies to turn institutional needs into legislation, investment, and lasting partnerships.

What to Expect

• Federal and state policy strategy: Explore the landscape heading into 2027 and identify opportunities to align legislative action.

• HBCU investment and innovation: Advance priorities around infrastructure, research, emerging technology, workforce development, and economic opportunity.

• Caucus development: Share approaches to strengthening existing HBCU legislative caucuses and establishing them in additional states.

• Working sessions: Help translate shared priorities into model policy, state action plans, and coordinated advocacy.

• Relationships that move the work: Connect with legislative leaders, HBCU leadership, and corporate and philanthropic partners.

• A shared message: Build the case for HBCU investment with communications that resonate with policymakers, employers, and communities.

Two Days. A Shared Agenda.

Tuesday, December 8 | Align the Strategy
Examine the federal landscape, connect national priorities to state action, and build relationships during an evening reception.

Wednesday, December 9 | Organize for Action
Focus on state legislative strategies, caucus development, communications, and commitments for the 2027 legislative sessions.

*The detailed agenda and speaker lineup will be announced.

Who Should Attend

State legislative leaders and legislative staff concerned about HBCUs; HBCU presidents and senior administrators; government relations and public policy professionals; and corporate, philanthropic, and community partners committed to strengthening HBCUs.

Why Philadelphia? Why Now?

As Black state legislators gather in Philadelphia in December, this convening offers an opportunity to align priorities before the 2027 legislative sessions begin. The goal is to leave with clearer policy objectives, stronger partnerships, and concrete next steps for advancing HBCUs across the country.

Bring your institution’s priorities. Bring your state’s perspective. Help shape what comes next.

REGISTER TO ATTEND