Dear NEOA Board Members, I want to bring to your attention an important update regarding the federal government's current operating status and its potential impact on the COE Policy Seminar 2025. As you may know, the government is currently funded under a continuing resolution (CR) that expires on March 14, 2025. Given the uncertainty in Congress, there is a real possibility that a government shutdown may occur. Impact on TRIO Programs A government shutdown will not directly affect TRIO operations at this time, as our programs are advance funded through FY2024 for Program Year 2024-2025. However, discussions regarding FY2025 funding are ongoing, and we must remain vigilant in our advocacy efforts. Alternative Agenda for COE Policy Seminar (March 19, 2025) If the government is shut down on Wednesday, March 19, COE has planned alternative programming to ensure that advocacy efforts can continue. Some congressional offices may still hold meetings, while others may need to cancel. If Capitol Hill is closed, COE will offer the following schedule: * 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Advocacy Workshops * "Using Social Media for Advocacy" * "Real-Time Letter Writing" * "Getting Students & Alumni Engaged in TRIO Advocacy" * 12:30 PM: Lunch Break * 3:00 PM: Assembly on the U.S. Capitol Grounds (pending permit approval) * 5:00 PM: Dinner Break * 6:30 PM: Closing Plenary ("Rally") Advocacy Chairs and State Leaders, please ensure that your Policy Seminar Team Leaders and delegations are prepared for flexibility at Policy Seminar. We must be ready to adapt to changing circumstances while continuing to advocate effectively. I will continue to provide updates as needed. Thank you for your leadership and commitment to ensuring the success of this year's Policy Seminar. Please reach out with any questions or concerns. Best regards, Yara Zoccarato NEOA President 203-837-9399 https://www.neoaonline.org/index.php [NEOA Logo] Falo Portugues; Hablo Español