NRC-FAHE
National Research Collaborative for Foster Alumni in Higher Education
About Us
National Research Collaborative for Foster Alumni and Higher Education (NRC-FAHE) is a network of researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and lived experts committed to improving higher education pathways for students with foster care experience. NRC-FAHE facilitates collaboration across disciplines to conduct rigorous, equity-centered research, share evidence-informed practices, and shape policies that expand opportunity. By amplifying the voices of foster care alumni and other independent students, and integrating their insights into research and decision-making, NRC-FAHE leads nationwide efforts to make higher education more accessible, inclusive, and supportive.
NRC-FAHE hosts a webinar series focused on improving college access, persistence, and success for students with foster care and independent status experience. Join researchers, practitioners, and lived experts as we share strategies, tools, and insights to create more equitable higher education systems for those with experience in foster care and/or independent status.
September 17th, 2026
11am- Noon PST
2pm-3pm EST
First, Dr. Geraldine Atkins (Associate Professor and Director of Field Education, Delaware State University Dept of Social Work) will present her research on the basic needs of foster youth and their educational success.
Second, Dr. William Woelki (University of Delaware Department of Human Development and Family Sciences) will present ““It’s Just Me”: Exploring the Educational Journeys of Youth with Foster Care Experience.” This dissertation examines the educational journeys of youth with foster care experience in postsecondary education. The presentation will highlight practice- and policy-relevant recommendations for reducing systemic barriers and strengthening institutional support, while demonstrating the value of participatory approaches that center lived experience throughout the research process.
September Webinar Registration Link:
Stay informed about innovative support programs for foster care alumni in higher education by subscribing to the NRC-FAHE quarterly newsletter!
—we promise not to spam your inbox.
Our newsletter highlights groundbreaking research, innovative college campus initiatives that offer vital support to students with foster care backgrounds, featuring insights from students with lived experience, along with critical policy updates and upcoming events and learning opportunities.
Join our community of foster alumni, students, researchers, and practitioners dedicated to improving postsecondary access and retention for youth with foster care experience and independent status