Building What Our Students Deserve
October 21-22, 2026
Eastern Michigan University
DEALINE TO REGISTER: October 9, 2026
Together, we'll dream bold possibilities, design equitable and sustainable systems, and build actionable strategies that strengthen college-going culture and expand postsecondary opportunities for students across Detroit and beyond.
Every great structure starts with a vision.
This year's Metro Detroit College Access & Success Conference is a call to build what our students deserve.
For the first time, the conference expands into a two-day experience, combining a dynamic day of learning, collaboration, and networking with DCAN's Strategy Institute, where teams will move from ideas to implementation.
The Blueprint Framework
Dream It.
Imagine what’s possible.
Explore fresh ideas and innovative approaches that reflect tne needs, experiences, and aspirations of and low-income students-to apply today's students.
DESIGN IT.
Create Systems That Work.
Design equitable, sustainable systems and strategies that can be adapted to your school, organization, and community.
BUILD IT.
Turn Ideas Into Action.
Translate ideas into concrete next steps, timelines, responsibilities, and accountability.
Dream bold. Design intentionally. Build what lasts.
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General Conference
Wednesday, October 21
Learn. Connect. Be Inspired.
Connect with college access and success professionals for a full day of engaging speakers, breakout sessions, resources, promising practices, and opportunities to learn from practitioners across the region.
Day 1 concludes with our Networking Reception, bringing attendees, presenters, partners, and organizations together to build connections and continue the conversation.
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DCAN Strategy Institute
Thursday, October 22
From Inspiration to Implementation.
Day 2 is where ideas become action.
School and organizational teams will participate in a collaborative implementation experience designed to help them develop actionable strategies to strengthen college-going culture through the lenses of equity and sustainability.
Teams of 2–5 are strongly encouraged.
Two Days One Blueprint
Who Should Attend?
Improving FAFSA completion takes strategy. consistency, and the right support is designed for professionals committed to expanding postsecondary opportunities and improving outcomes for students.
School Counselors
College Advisors
Educators
School Leaders
College Access Professionals
Higher Education Partners
Community-Based Organizations
Youth Development Professionals
Workforce Partners
If your work helps students prepare for, access, navigate, succeed in postsecondary education and career pathways, there is a place for you at the conference.
Choose Your Conference Experience
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Day 1 - General Conference
$75 per person
October 21
Includes the general conference, keynote and breakout sessions, conference resources, meals, networking opportunities, and networking reception.
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FULL CONFERENCE EXPERIENCE
$100 per person
October 21-22
Includes everything from Day 1 plus the DCAN Strategy Institute, facilitated strategic planning, implementation resources, and planning tools.
Strategy Institute participants are encouraged to attend with a team of 2-5 colleagues or
Partner with us. Build with us.
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PRESENTERS
Our conference brings to light the barriers our community faces in pursuing higher education, and we're seeking dynamic presenters to articulate that message in breakout sessions and workshops.
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VENDORS
If you’re a vendor that offers programs, services, or resources to Detroit learners, we’d like to extend an invitation to you to connect directly with educators, counselors, and college access professionals.
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SPONSORS
If you believe in access to postsecondary education for all, we'd love to talk through the ways you can get involved. If you're interested in sponsorship, email Daniel Valentine by clicking below.
Event speaker Details coming soon
Frequently Asked Questions
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We offer a range of solutions designed to meet your needs—whether you're just getting started or scaling something bigger. Everything is tailored to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
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Getting started is simple. Reach out through our contact form or schedule a call—we’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.
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We combine a thoughtful, human-centered approach with clear communication and reliable results. It’s not just what we do—it’s how we do it that sets us apart.
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You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.
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We offer flexible pricing based on project type and complexity. After an initial conversation, we’ll provide a transparent quote with no hidden costs.
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Collaborative, honest, and straightforward. We're here to guide the process, bring ideas to the table, and keep things moving.
