Dual Enrollment in 2026: National Leaders on Growth, Pathways, and Partnerships

March 6, 2026, 10:00 AM PT/1:00 PM ET

Dual enrollment continues to be one of the most powerful strategies for expanding access to college, accelerating time to degree, and strengthening workforce and transfer pathways. At the same time, dual enrollment leaders are navigating rapid growth, evolving state policies, access considerations, and increasing expectations for alignment between K-12 schools and community colleges.

This facilitated panel discussion of national experts brings together experienced dual enrollment leaders to examine emerging trends shaping the future of dual enrollment nationwide. Panelists include senior-level community college leadership alongside a researcher and practitioner deeply engaged in building and sustaining dual enrollment programs.

Participants will gain insight into how institutions are responding to increased demand, strengthening cross-sector partnerships, and ensuring that dual enrollment programs promote student access and meaningful student outcomes. Panelists will discuss challenges and opportunities related to program design, staffing, funding, student supports, and alignment with institutional and state goals. The conversation will also explore how dual enrollment fits into broader enrollment management, completion, and workforce strategies.

Designed for community college and K-12 audiences, this session emphasizes collaboration, shared responsibility, and practical takeaways. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of national and regional trends, promising practices from the field, and actionable ideas to strengthen dual enrollment pathways for students.

Learning Objectives

After attending this panel discussion, participants will be able to:

  • Identify key trends shaping the growth and evolution of dual enrollment programs
  • Examine how community colleges and K-12 systems can strengthen partnerships to support student success
  • Explore leadership perspectives on scaling dual enrollment while maintaining quality and equity
  • Apply promising practices to improve access, alignment, and outcomes in dual enrollment programs

Presenters: Meg Foster, Career Coach, Reynolds Community College, and Online Learning and Design Specialist and Consultant, Innovative Educators; Dr. Lisa Lawrenson, Superintendent/President, San Joaquin Delta College; Aurely Garcia Tulloch, Research Analyst, Community College Research Center, Teachers College, Columbia University

This webinar is co-hosted by the League for Innovation in the Community College and Innovative Educators.

Click here to register.