How Can Early College Savings Programs Improve College Access and Success?

Early wealth building programs, including Children’s Savings Accounts (CSAs), 529 plans, and other early college savings initiatives have gained traction in recent years as a tool for accelerating economic mobility, improving college-going identity, and increasing postsecondary enrollment—particularly for students from low-income backgrounds. Join us to learn how these programs align with National College Attainment Network (NCAN) members’ postsecondary access and success work. When paired with advising and Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion, CSAs have even greater potential to help make education after high school more attainable and affordable.

From statewide initiatives to citywide nonprofit models, CSA programs vary widely in design and scale, but their reach is growing. As of 2023, 5.8 million children had access to CSAs through a state or local initiative.

Leaders from California, New York, and Michigan will share how CSA programs are designed, funded, and implemented to maximize impact and meet the distinct needs of the communities they serve. Participants will leave with a deeper knowledge of the opportunities and benefits to college access organizations that collaborate with early college savings programs, and how CSA programs fit into the broader landscape of postsecondary access and success.

Presenters:

• Debra-Ellen Glickstein, Founding Executive Director, NYC Kids RISE
• Cassandra DiBenedetto, Executive Director, ScholarShare Investment Board
• Brian Rakovitis, Economic Mobility Consultant, Community Economic Development Association of Michigan