Four U of A TRIO Talent Search students — Roselyn Guzman and Keila Ortiz Salinas, both of Springdale High School; Jose Reyes of Green Forest High School; and Milca Marcelino of Northside High School — joined a cohort of TRIO high school students from the graduating classes of 2025 and 2026 for National Student Leadership Congress in Washington, D.C., from June 8-13.

This annual event is hosted by the Council for Opportunity in Education, a national non-profit organization dedicated to increasing access to college for all, particularly for those students served by the Federal TRIO Programs.

The rigorous, six-day program for TRIO Talent Search, Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math-Science students included a mock congress competition, a day on Capitol Hill and several other intensive learning experiences. During the National Student Leadership Congress, the students slept, studied and dined on the American University campus. Additionally, they engaged in community service activities, developed their leadership and public speaking skills, learned how to manage and motivate a team and built confidence in their ability to communicate effectively. They also had the opportunity to engage with senators and representatives on Capitol Hill and visited historical and cultural sites. 

"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 Talent Search. "This can help students gain a better understanding of civics and become more engaged citizens." 

The National Student Leadership Congress requires students to research and analyze complex issues and then develop well-reasoned arguments to support their positions. Student delegates improve their critical thinking skills and learn how to evaluate information and sources. 

"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 Kimberly Jones, president of COE. "As we continue to invest in the potential of TRIO students, we see them emerge as leaders who will shape our future for the better." 

Attendees reflected on their experience when they returned:

"NSLC was just amazing. We learned how to be great leaders and how to focus on our strengths! It's helped me understand the role that I play daily, and it will definitely help me in my future career," said Reyes, a student at Green Forest High School.

"National Student Leadership Congress was an experience like no other. I not only got to travel and sightsee, I got to network, meet new people, grow in my leadership abilities as well as grow as a person," said Ortiz Salinas, a student at Springdale High School. "I can't thank NSLC and the University of Arkansas Talent Search enough for this opportunity. It has made me see the world in a different perspective and helped me grow in my abilities."

Talent Search Programs is a department in the Division of Student Affairs composed of three U.S. Department of Education TRIO grants. 

To learn more about the federal TRIO programs and additional student opportunities for TRIO students, visit coenet.org. 

About the Division of Student Affairs: The Division of Student Affairs supports the whole student by cultivating transformative experiences and environments that promote student well-being, sense of community, and success. We prioritize student access, well-being, and belonging, post-graduation success, and building a strong organizational culture.