2026 Annual Conference

2026 Annual Conference Registration

The COHEAO Annual Conference runs from Sunday, May 31-Tuesday, June 2. Taking advantage of being in Washington, DC, COHEAO will be holding legislative visits on Wednesday, June 3.

We’re thrilled to welcome James Bergeron, Deputy Under Secretary at the U.S. Department of Education, as our Special Guest Speaker!

When:
May 31 – June 2, 2026
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where:
Holiday Inn Washington Capitol National Mall
Washington, D.C.
Contact:
Donna Stelling-Gurnett
dgurnett@hinmanstraub.com
518-689-7275

For information on booking a hotel in our room block, please click here.

Why You Should Attend

Attending the COHEAO (Coalition of Higher Education Assistance Organizations) Annual Conference is beneficial for professionals in higher education, particularly those involved in student financial services, debt management, and compliance. Here are the top reasons you should attend:

  1. Stay Updated on Regulatory Changes
    COHEAO focuses on federal policies affecting student financial services, student loans, account collections and higher education compliance. Attending ensures you are aware of legislative and regulatory updates, including Department of Education policies, Title IV funding and the status of CFPB
  2. Professional Development & Networking
    The conference brings together financial aid officers, bursars, third-party servicers, and policymakers. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with industry experts, share best practices, and build valuable professional relationships.
  3. Access to Expert-Led Sessions
    Gain insight from industry leaders and policymakers on regulatory and legislative issues, student debt management, institutional loan programs, and best practices in student financial services.
  4. Advocacy & Policy Influence
    COHEAO actively engages with policymakers in Washington, D.C. and local state legislators. Attendees can participate in discussions that influence policy decisions affecting higher education finance.
  5. Best Practices & Institutional Strategies
    Learn how other institutions handle challenges related to student financial services, including compliance, innovative strategies for improving billing, collections and student financial wellness.
  6. Vendor & Technology Insights
    Network with your third-party partners to explore the latest tools, software, and services that can help improve financial aid processes, collections, and compliance efforts.

    If you’re involved in student financial services, compliance, or higher education finance, this conference is a valuable investment in your professional growth and institutional success. 

Schedule at a Glance

To view the tentative schedule, please click below.  Please note that this schedule is tentative and subject to change without notice.  

Travel Notes