Aspiring First-Generation College Students Honed Legislative Skills in Washington, D.C.

Three U of A TRIO Talent Search students - Dennis K. Allenso of Springdale High School, Ashlee Bills of Berryville High School and Alicia Morales of Northside High School - were in Washington, D.C., recently for The Council for Opportunity in Educations' National Student Leadership Congress (NSLC). They were among nearly 200 outstanding high school student delegates selected from across the United States and U.S. territories to represent their TRIO Talent Search or Upward Bound program. Additionally, these students aspire to not only to be first in their families to attend college, but also to become future leaders in their communities through participation in a mock congress to develop their leadership skills.

U of A Talent Search student delegates joined a cohort of TRIO high school students from the graduating classes of 2024 and 2025 in Washington, D.C., to engage in community service activities, develop their leadership and public speaking skills, learn how to manage and motivate a team, and build confidence in their ability to communicate effectively. During NLSC, the students sleep, study and dine on the American University campus, engage in conflict resolution workshops, undergo diversity training and visit historical and cultural sites. They also meet their senators and representatives on Capitol Hill. The high -mpact program is in its 34th year.

"The whole point of NSLC was to give students the necessary skills to be a leader in their communities. And it has done an amazing job    doing so, especially for me. However, I've also found a family I will never forget."  - Dennis K. Allenso (Springdale High School -                Springdale, Arkansas)

"My experience on the NSLC '23 trip was great! During this six-day trip, I was able to meet so many amazing people, including an admissions officer from one of my dream colleges. It was overall a great experience, and I'm glad I got the opportunity." -Ashlee Bills (Berryville High School - Berryville, Arkansas)

"My 2023 NSLC experience was amazing. It was filled with many experiences I never thought I would ever be able to go see and and take part in. I met so many people from across the US. that grew to be family in the short amount of time we spent together. I also learned many leadership lessons and other things that will follow me throughout life. It was a truly unforgettable experience." - Alicia Morales (Northside High School - Fort Smith, Arkansas)

NSLC is an intensive six-day leadership experience hosted on the campus of American University. Delegates worked together in finding innovative solutions to today's societal issues. Highlights of the event included a mock congress competition, diversity and inclusion training, interactive learning labs, college and career exploration, exposure to Washington, D.C., landmarks/museums and a day on Capitol Hill. 

"The student leadership congress in D.C. offers TRIO students the chance to learn about the workings of government and how policies are made," said Nathan Brown, director of Education Talent Search.

"This can help students gain a better understanding of civics and become more engaged citizens," said Evelyn Fuller, director of College Project and University Access Talent Search programs.

"Participating in NSLC is a valuable experience that can help students develop important skills and knowledge that will serve them well in their academic, personal and professional lives," said Maureen Hoyler, president of COE. "The mock congress requires students to work together to develop policies and legislation, which can help students improve their teamwork and collaboration skills, skills that are essential in many areas of life."

The Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) is a nonprofit organization established in 1981 dedicated to furthering the expansion of college opportunities for low-income, first-generation students, veterans and students with disabilities in all 50 states; Washington, D.C.; the Pacific Islands; and Puerto Rico. Its membership includes more than 1,000 colleges and agencies. Through its numerous membership services, COE works in conjunction with colleges, universities and agencies to help first-generation students enter college and graduate. More than a million students each year receive college access and retention services through COE's member colleges and agencies. To learn more about COE and NSLC, visit  Home - Council for Opportunity in Education (coenet.org).

Talent Search Programs is a department in the Division of Student Affairs composed of three U.S. Department of Education TRIO grants. The Division of Student Affairs supports students in their pursuit of knowledge, earning a degree, finding meaningful careers and connecting with the global community. We provide student housing, dining and health care and wellness resources; create innovative programs that educate and inspire; and offer inclusive support for a diverse student body. We enhance the University of Arkansas experience and help students succeed, one student at a time. To learn more about Talent Search visit talentsearch.uark.edu/.

Talent Search contacts: 

Nathan Brown, director of Educational Talent Search Program: ncbrown@uark.edu, 479-575-2625

Evelyn Fuller, director of College Project & University Access Talent Search Programs: efuller@uark.edu, 479-575-2628

Council for Opportunity in Education Contact: Angela Holley, director of Student Development Services: angela.holley@coenet.org