Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) – PHENND https://phennd.org We are a network of over 25 colleges and universities that strengthens service learning in Philadelphia, connecting academics with community involvement. Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:06:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Zoom Event: Supporting Immigrant Students in Uncertain Times: Tools for College Access Professionals – Apr 16 https://phennd.org/update/zoom-event-supporting-immigrant-students-in-uncertain-times-tools-for-college-access-professionals-apr-16/ Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:05:04 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=87786 Supporting immigrant students has become increasingly complex as shifting immigration policies, heightened enforcement, and widespread uncertainty cause many young people to question whether college is still within reach.

Join the Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) and leaders from the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration for tools and strategies to better support undocumented, DACA‑eligible, refugee, and other immigrant students on their path to college.

Date and Time: Thursday, April 16, 2026, 9:00-11:00 PM

For more information, and to register for the Zoom link, please click here.

]]> Zoom Event: Preparing Students for What’s Next: PHEAA & PDE Briefing – Feb 19 https://phennd.org/update/zoom-event-preparing-students-for-whats-next-pheaa-pde-briefing-feb-19/ Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:33:19 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=87463 Join the PCPR Network for a timely statewide update featuring representatives from PDE and PHEAA. This session will unpack the latest developments shaping college access in Pennsylvania, including key highlights from the newly adopted PA State Board of Higher Education Strategic Plan, focused on statewide coordination to advance postsecondary attainment, affordability, and workforce alignment.

Participants will also receive updates on Universal FAFSA implementation, Affordability and Transparency PA Act 69 of 2024 cost, aid, and exit counseling provisions, Workforce Pell, state grant changes, new borrower requirements, and emerging tools designed to support students and families. Expect a clear, actionable overview that equips counselors, advisors, and college access professionals to guide students confidently through the evolving postsecondary landscape.

Date and Time: Thursday, February 19, 2026, 9:00-11:00 AM

Learn more and register.

]]> PCPR January Network Meeting: AI Ready: What Students Need to Know Now – Jan 15 https://phennd.org/update/pcpr-january-network-meeting-ai-ready-what-students-need-to-know-now-jan-15/ Mon, 22 Dec 2025 17:04:56 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=87174 AI is already reshaping how students learn and complete assignments. Join us for a powerful conversation with experts from K–12, higher ed, and industry on how to guide students toward ethical, effective use of AI—starting in high school.

We’ll explore:

  • How colleges are addressing AI in coursework and academic integrity
  • What students need to know now to avoid misuse
  • How AI can support—not replace—learning and creativity

Speakers:

  • Dr. Fran Newberg, Deputy Chief, Office of Educational Technology, School District of Philadelphia
  • Dr. Pamela McCauley, Dean, School of Engineering, Widener University
  • Nasser Jones, Chief Digital Officer, Matrix Marketing Plus AI

Let’s equip our students for the future, together.

Register.

]]> Scholarship Ready: Tools for Access & Success Professionals – Nov 20 https://phennd.org/update/scholarship-ready-tools-for-access-success-professionals-nov-20/ Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:24:28 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=86918 Did you know November is National Scholarship Awareness Month? Are your students and families curious about scholarships? Do you want to be sure you’re giving them the best and latest advice on securing scholarships? Join us at the Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable’s November network meeting, where we will hear about scholarship resources, tools, and best practices for advising students. We will also hear about tips and strategies for tackling the scholarship essay.

Following the presentations, there will also be time for attendees to share information about their own organization’s resources and upcoming events.

Date and Time: November 20, 2025, 9:00-11:00 AM

Register.

]]> Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable Podcast: Tuesdays with Thom – Oct 14 https://phennd.org/update/philadelphia-college-prep-roundtable-podcast-tuesdays-with-thom-oct-14/ Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:40:12 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=86715 Join us for Tuesdays with Thom — a 30-minute, podcast-style information session hosted by the Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR). Designed to keep our community connected, informed, and inspired, this monthly series dives into the latest updates, resources, and opportunities from PCPR and beyond.

Hosted by PCPR Executive Director Thomas Butler, Tuesdays with Thom offers a relaxed yet insightful space to stay current on initiatives, programs, partnerships, and everything in between that’s shaping the college access and success landscape.

On October 14, 2025, 12:30-1:00 PM Thom’s special guest will be Ellen Ridyard, Director of Collaborations and Partnerships at College Access and Success Ecosystem (CASE). Ellen will sit down with Thom to “chop it up” about the (C.A.S.E.) — a vital network connecting education, nonprofit, and community leaders across Philadelphia.

Learn more and register.

Informational flyer for Tuesdays with Thom.

]]> Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable: FAFSA Completion Training – Oct 30 https://phennd.org/update/fafsa-completion-training-oct-30/ Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:06:46 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=86616 Are you helping students and families with the FAFSA? Join us for essential FAFSA Completion Training!  The 2026-2027 FAFSA season has begun. To ensure that Philadelphia students have the best chance at receiving financial aid and enrolling in college, the Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) is hosting a training for those helping students and families with FAFSA completion. Choose the session that best meets your needs:

Session I

  • Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Topic: FAFSA Basics
  • Ideal for beginners or those with limited or no FAFSA completion experience.

Session II

  • Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  • Topic: FAFSA Advanced
  • Perfect for those who have some FAFSA completion experience but need answers to complex questions.

Presenters: 

  • Fred Stennis, Co-Founder of Navicore Partners LLC
  • Isaiah Ellis, Co-Founder of Navicore Partners LLC
  • Ron Felder, Higher Education Access Partner, Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency

Date: Thursday, October 30, 2025 

Location: Community College of Philadelphia, Center for Business and Industry (CBI), Room C2-28, 18th & Callowhill Streets, Philadelphia, PA

Pre-registration is required. Register early as space is limited!

]]> PCPR Fall Symposium: New Rules, Real Impact: College Access and Success in Transition – Sep 18 https://phennd.org/update/pcpr-fall-symposium-new-rules-real-impact-college-access-and-success-in-transition-sep-18/ Mon, 25 Aug 2025 16:03:14 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=86415 The Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) is excited to invite you to our Fall Symposium – New Rules, Real Impact: College Access and Success in Transition on Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM at La Salle University (Founders Hall, 5698 Wister Street, Philadelphia, PA).

This year’s symposium will bring together college access and success professionals, policymakers, and advocates to explore the rapidly changing landscape of higher education. Together, we will examine:

  • Federal Shifts & Local Impact – Understanding the new Reconciliation Bill and its effect on higher education access.
  • Advocacy in Action – A conversation with PA State Representative Jordan Harris, Chair of the House Appropriations Committee.
  • The State of Postsecondary Access in Philadelphia – Featuring Katie Martin (Pew Charitable Trusts) and Ayana Lewis (School District of Philadelphia).
  • Breakout Sessions on admissions updates, financial aid realities, free speech on campus, and the future of DEI initiatives.

The day will also provide networking opportunities, breakfast and lunch, and space to connect with colleagues committed to ensuring equitable postsecondary opportunities for all students.

Register Now to Reserve Your Spot.

We encourage you to join us for this important day of learning, sharing, and strategizing. Together, we can ensure that shifting policies do not stand in the way of student success.

]]> Save the Date: New Rules, Real Impact: College Access and Success in Transition – Sep 18 https://phennd.org/update/save-the-date-new-rules-real-impact-college-access-and-success-in-transition-sep-18/ Mon, 04 Aug 2025 20:32:42 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=86316 Join us at the Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable Fall Symposium entitled New Rules, Real Impact: College Access and Success in Transition where we will dive into the new federal budget, changing policies and implications for college access and access work. We will also examine educational attainment in Philadelphia and how college access programs can best connect with and serve students in this new landscape.

Finally, we will provide an opportunity for participants to more closely examine hot button issues in college access and success through concurrent afternoon breakout sessions. Don’t miss the important information, insightful discussions and opportunities to network with like-minded colleagues that the day will provide. Breakfast and lunch will be provided but you must register in advance.

Confirmed speakers (partial list):

  • Catherine Brown, Senior Director, Policy and Advocacy, National College Attainment Network
  • Blair Wriston, Government Affairs Senior Manager, Ed Trust
  • Katie Martin, Project Director, Philadelphia Research & Policy, The Pew Charitable Trusts
  • Ayana Lewis, Esq, Executive Director, School District of Philadelphia Office of Strategic Partnerships

Date and Time: Thursday, September 18, 2025, 9:00am to 3:30pm

Location: LaSalle University

 

]]> Bracing for Change: The Road to Student Success in Uncertain Times – Jun 17 https://phennd.org/update/bracing-for-change-the-road-to-student-success-in-uncertain-times-jun-17/ Thu, 05 Jun 2025 20:18:31 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=86011 Please join us join us for the Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable’s 2025 Spring Symposium, Bracing for Change: The Road to Student Success in Uncertain Times.

This year’s symposium promises to be a timely and impactful gathering of educators, policymakers, and advocates exploring the pressing challenges and emerging opportunities in postsecondary education. The agenda is designed to empower participants through:

  • A keynote address by Heidi Tseu, Esq., American Council on Education
  • An update on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Plan
  • A live policy discussion with elected officials from the PA House, Senate, and U.S. Congress
  • A dynamic leadership panel on navigating change in higher education
  • A heartfelt tribute to Michael Gaynor, a cherished advocate for college access
  • A Resource Fair showcasing essential organizations and tools
  • A closing Call to Action urging us all to advocate for student-centered policies

Date and Time: Tuesday, June 17, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Breakfast & Networking begins at 8:30 AM)

Location: Arcadia University, University Commons, Great Hall, 450 S. Easton Road, Glenside, PA 19038

We’d be honored to have your voice and presence in the room as we connect, collaborate, and champion the future of student success.

Learn more and RSVP here.

]]> PCPR Virtual Network Meeting: College Access & Success Supports for First-Generation Students – May 15 https://phennd.org/update/pcpr-virtual-network-meeting-college-access-success-supports-for-first-generation-students-may-15/ Tue, 29 Apr 2025 20:01:04 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=85804 Join us for the May PCPR Network Meeting as we focus on supporting first-generation college students — those who are first in their families to attend college. These students often navigate higher education without the benefit of family experience, making targeted guidance and resources essential. During this session, we’ll explore practical strategies for helping first-gen students access, persist, and succeed in postsecondary education. Attendees will hear from practitioners in the field, share promising practices, and discuss tools that can strengthen support systems across K–12, higher education, and community-based programs. As always, we’ll also provide space for community announcements and peer resource sharing.

As usual, there will also be time for general updates and for attendees to share resources, activities and events happening at their organizations.

Date and Time: May 15, 2025, 9:00-11:00 AM

Register.

]]> Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable Monthly Network Zoom Meeting: Supporting LGBTQ students with the College Preparation Process – Mar 20 https://phennd.org/update/philadelphia-college-prep-roundtable-monthly-network-zoom-meeting-supporting-lgbtq-students-with-the-college-preparation-process-mar-20/ Fri, 14 Mar 2025 15:39:10 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=85536 How can you best advise your LGBTQ students with the college preparation process?  How can you guide them in researching colleges and learning about the resources and legal rights available to them?  We will be joined this month by Stacey Cunitz and kt Tedesco who will share information and resources that will help you best support your LGBTQ students. We will also discuss how the current climate and directives from Washington may be impacting students on campuses.

As usual, there will also be time for Q & A, general updates and for attendees to share resources, activities and events happening at their organizations.

Date and Time: March 20, 2025, 9:00 – 11:00 AM

Register here to receive the Zoom link.

Presenters:

  • Stacey Cunitz, Blue Moon Educational Consulting (former school counselor and past PACAC president)
  • kt Tedesco, Director of Gender Resources and Sexuality Equity, Haverford College
]]> PCPR Monthly Virtual Network Meeting: College Access Supports for Students Experiencing Housing Insecurity – Nov 21 https://phennd.org/update/pcpr-monthly-virtual-network-meeting-college-access-supports-for-students-experiencing-housing-insecurity-nov-21/ Mon, 18 Nov 2024 19:34:34 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=84873 You’re invited! Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable is hosting their monthly network meeting focused on College Access & Success Supports for Students Experiencing Housing Insecurity. This virtual meeting will be held on Thursday, November 21 from 9-11am via Zoom.

Each year, more than a million young people in the United States experience homelessness. Federal law provides support for some of these young people in their quest to pursue a college degree. How do we as college access professionals know which students are eligible for federal and other supports? What ARE those supports? Join us at this month’s Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) network meeting as we welcome experts who will demystify these issues and share resources that will enable us to best serve our students. Be sure to bring your thoughts and questions.

As usual, there will also be time following the presentations and Q & A session for college access/ financial aid updates and for attendees to share info about resources, activities, and events happening at their organizations.

Presenters:

  • Colleen Landy-Thomas, Director & Regional Coordinator Education for Children & Youth Experiencing Homelessness School District of Phila.
  • Jillian Sitjar, Director of Higher Education Partnerships, SchoolHouse Connection
  • Anasofia Trelles, K-12 Senior Program Manager, SchoolHouse Connection
  • Wendy Gaynor, Executive Director, Resilient Students Network (formerly the College Student Basic Needs Program)

The event is Free but you must register online here.

Informational flyer.

]]> Virtual Event: College Access & Success Supports for Students Experiencing Housing Insecurity – Nov 21 https://phennd.org/update/virtual-event-college-access-success-supports-for-students-experiencing-housing-insecurity-nov-21/ Fri, 01 Nov 2024 15:52:45 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=84780 Each year, more than a million young people in the United States experience homelessness. Federal law provides support for some of these young people in their quest to pursue a college degree. How do we as college access professionals know which students are eligible for federal and other supports? What ARE those supports? Join us at this month’s Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) network meeting as we welcome experts who will demystify these issues and share resources that will enable us to best serve our students. Be sure to bring your thoughts and questions.

As usual, there will also be time following the presentations and Q & A session for college access/ financial aid updates and for attendees to share info about resources, activities, and events happening at their organizations.

Presenters:

  • Colleen Landy-Thomas, Director & Regional Coordinator Education for Children & Youth Experiencing Homelessness School District of Phila.
  • Jillian Sitjar, Director of Higher Education Partnerships, SchoolHouse Connection
  • Anasofia Trelles, K-12 Senior Program Manager, SchoolHouse Connection
  • Wendy Gaynor, Executive Director, Resilient Students Network (formerly the College Student Basic Needs Program)

Date and Time: November 21, 2024, 9:00 am to 11:00 am

The event is Free but you must register online here.

Informational flyer.

]]> PCPR Monthly Network Meeting: College Access & Undocumented Students – Oct 17 https://phennd.org/update/pcpr-monthly-network-meeting-college-access-undocumented-students-oct-17/ Mon, 07 Oct 2024 16:47:05 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=84637 Immigrants, refugees, undocumented students, DACA, Dreamers…what do all these terms mean?  And, more specifically, what do they mean for helping students with college applications and financial aid?  Join us at our monthly Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) network meetings where we’ll hear from experts in this area.  Learn the distinction between the terms, what the current legislation says and how to best serve students who fall into these categories.

As usual, there will also be  time for attendees to share resources, activities and events happening at their organizations.

Date and Time: Thursday, October 17, 9:00-11:00 AM

Register here to receive the Zoom link.

]]> PCPR FALL SYMPOSIUM – Eyes Wide Open: Navigating Higher Education’s New Landscape – Sep 20 https://phennd.org/update/save-the-date-pcpr-fall-symposium-eyes-wide-open-navigating-higher-educations-new-landscape-sep-20/ Wed, 28 Aug 2024 18:38:52 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=84340 The Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable is pleased to present our annual fall symposium entitled “Eyes Wide Open: Navigating the Future of Higher Education.” The purpose of the event is to inform the college access community of issues impacting college campuses so they can better prepare their students for success.

The symposium will feature nationally known Akil Bello, an education policy expert with nearly four decades of experience in admissions, testing, and equity. He is a vocal advocate for fair testing practices and has contributed to Forbes since 2020. Currently, he serves as the Senior Director of Advocacy and Advancement at FairTest, where he focuses on building stronger relationships and providing greater support for low-income students, underrepresented minority groups, public schools, non-profit organizations, and community-based organizations His presentation will focus on how current national trends and policies are shaping the landscape of higher education and what students need to consider when making college decisions.

In addition to Akil Bello’s keynote, the symposium will include a panel discussion with higher education administrators covering a range of topics impacting campus life such as free speech, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), mental health, and campus safety.

Breakfast and lunch will be provided and there is no cost to attend.

Date and Time: Friday, September 20, 2024, 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Registration is required, however, and you can do so at this link

]]> Volunteer FAFSA coaches needed ASAP! https://phennd.org/update/volunteer-fafsa-coaches-needed-asap/ Sat, 10 Aug 2024 21:18:41 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=84169 Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) is responding to an all hands on deck call from Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) to help their students complete the FAFSA in time for the Fall semester.  These in-person workshops will be held on:

  • Wednesday, August 14th, from 9:00am to 2:00pm
  • Monday, August 19th, from 9:00am to 2:00pm
  • Thursday, August 22th, from 9:00am to 2:00pm
  • Wednesday, August 28th, from 9:30 to 12:00pm

All sessions will be held at CCP.  Specific locations will be provided in the confirmation email sent to volunteers.  If you can join us for the whole time on a given day, great; if not, please indicate the times you are available at the sign up link below.

If you have training in FAFSA completion and are able to help students and families get ready for college, please sign up for a time slot at this link.

Questions? Please contact us at contact@collegepreproundtable.org.

]]> FAFSA P.U.S.H. (Preparing Undergraduates Successfully for Higher Education) Campaign https://phennd.org/update/fafsa-p-u-s-h-preparing-undergraduates-successfully-for-higher-education-campaign/ Sun, 28 Jul 2024 18:02:53 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=84095 The Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) has launched the FAFSA P.U.S.H. (Preparing Undergraduates Successfully for Higher Education) campaign, a collaborative effort by the Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) and our partners at local, state, and national levels. Together, we’re working on the “FAFSA Student Support Strategy” to enhance college access and success for 2024 high school graduates.

The 2024-25 FAFSA application cycle brings substantial changes, including a new application form, eligibility criteria, terminology, and requirements for parents and other contributors. With a shorter timeline for submission, the need for additional support, advice, and encouragement for students and families is of paramount importance.

Our goal is to increase the number of students completing the 2024-25 FAFSA and enrolling in college, particularly first-time students. Stay informed and engaged by visiting fafsapush.org for more details and information. Follow the PCPR Event page for a schedule of FAFSA completion events and activities this summer.

Together, we can make college dreams a reality for more students!

]]> Volunteer FAFSA Coaches Wanted! https://phennd.org/update/volunteer-fafsa-coaches-wanted/ Fri, 26 Jul 2024 20:26:18 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=84090 The Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR) is looking for enthusiastic, experienced volunteers to support students and families as FAFSA Coaches. As noted above, we have two outreach efforts to support students completing the FAFSA: in-person events and virtual one-on-one support via Zoom.

Join us as a FAFSA Coach to help students and their families complete their 24-25 FAFSA applications. We’re looking to expand our team of advisers, counselors, and coaches to provide more support. If you are interested in serving as a Virtual/In-Person Events FAFSA Coach, complete this form.

]]> FAFSA Support & Completion – Aug 2 or 27 https://phennd.org/update/fafsa-support-completion-sep-2-or-27/ Fri, 26 Jul 2024 20:23:37 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=84089 STUDENTS & FAMILIES Get personalized FAFSA support this summer by attending our in-person sessions, where expert advisors will guide you through the financial aid process. These sessions are designed to help you efficiently complete your FAFSA application and make your college aspirations a reality.  Click the date below to sign up for a time:

Both events will be held at: School District of Philadelphia, 440 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA

Receive a $25 Gift Card upon proof of FAFSA completion
(while supplies last)

If you prefer the convenience of working on the FAFSA from your home, we have a solution!  Sign up for a Zoom FAFSA completion session at this link.

]]> PCPR Spring Symposium: Finding Our Way: Navigating Higher Ed Challenges Together – Jun 20 https://phennd.org/update/pcpr-spring-symposium-finding-our-way-navigating-higher-ed-challenges-together-jun-20/ Thu, 23 May 2024 16:43:01 +0000 https://phennd.org/?post_type=update&p=83789 Join us for an enlightening and engaging event focused on the current landscape of higher education and the challenges and opportunities it presents. Sessions will cover issues impacting higher education, including academic freedom, DEI, student debt, and more. Participate in a town hall discussing the PA Blueprint for Higher Education, hear from experts on student retention and completion strategies, and understand the value of a liberal arts education.

The event concludes with a networking session featuring complimentary headshots, an Authors Corner, exhibitor tables, and social media engagement opportunities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and share with professionals dedicated to advancing higher education.

Event Highlights:

  • Expert speakers, panelists, & presenters
  • Author & Exhibitor Tables
  • Free Complimentary Headshots
  • Free Lunch
  • Networking Event
  • & More!

Date and Time: THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2024 – 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Location: ARCADIA UNIVERSITY, 450 S. EASTON ROAD, ELKINS PARK, PA 19038

Learn more and register.

Become an exhibitor.

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