Welcoming Our U.S. Scholarship Winners to Alliance 2026 in Orlando  

Written By: Casey Hickman, HEUG Marketing Manager

We have already announced our Global Scholarship winners who will be joining us at Alliance 2026, representing institutions from around the world and bringing global perspectives to Orlando. 

Now, we are excited to introduce our U.S. Scholarship winners. 

Alliance 2026 is bringing together higher education professionals from across the United States, and these recipients will be joining us in Orlando as both attendees and presenters. Representing institutions across the country reflect the collaboration, learning, and community that define Alliance. 

Their perspectives highlight the meaningful impact Alliance has on professional growth and institutional success. 

Here is what each of our U.S. Scholarship winners is most looking forward to at Alliance 2026. 

Scott Frey, University of Colorado 

For Scott, attending Alliance 2026 is both meaningful and energizing. 

“Just having the opportunity to attend is exciting. In-person travel is becoming increasingly rare, and it truly feels like an honor.” 

Winning the scholarship allows him to continue learning beyond virtual training. 

“This scholarship gives me the opportunity to collaborate with peers and share knowledge through my presentations.” 

Alliance consistently delivers value he can bring back to campus.

 “I always learn something at Alliance, and I always bring something back to my institution.” 

Carolyn Veek, California State University Dominguez Hills 

Carolyn is most excited about connecting with peers in academic advisement and student records. 

“I’m looking forward to networking with colleagues and learning about new or updated technology for student systems.”

The scholarship made her attendance possible. 

“Without the scholarship, I likely would not have been able to attend. Being there allows me to build connections I can rely on.” 

Alliance provides insights she can immediately apply. 

“I’ll be able to bring back what I learn and incorporate it into our business processes.” 

Morgan Andres, Duke University 

For Morgan, Alliance 2026 is about reconnection and growth. 

“I’m most excited about reconnecting with professionals I’ve met before and meeting new ones.” 

With new responsibilities, Alliance offers timely learning. 

“Attending sessions will help me grow more comfortable in my role and learn from others.” 

Sharing knowledge is always the goal. 

“I go into every session hoping to take something meaningful back to my institution.” 

Dede Young, Northern Illinois University 

Dede is excited to reconnect with long standing colleagues and present at Alliance once again. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing colleagues from across the world and presenting my sessions.” 

The scholarship ensures continued growth and contribution. 

“Winning this scholarship allows me to deepen my knowledge and present something new.” 

Alliance continues to strengthen her professional community. 

“Attending and presenting helps me grow, build relationships, and always learn something new.” 

Anna Kourouniotis, Duke University 

For Anna, Alliance 2026 is about energy, connection, and inspiration. 

“It’s the celebratory atmosphere, reconnecting with friends, and opportunities for informal learning.” 

The scholarship recognition is deeply meaningful. 

“It reinforces the value of collective work and fuels my motivation.” 

Alliance fosters community and shared learning. 

“Meeting in person strengthens connections and helps me bring community backed solutions to my institution.” 

See You in Orlando 

We are thrilled to welcome our U.S. Scholarship winners to Alliance 2026 in Orlando, where they will learn, present, and contribute to the collaborative spirit that makes Alliance so special. 

Their stories remind us that Alliance is more than a conference. It is a community where higher education professionals learn from one another, build lasting connections, and grow together. We cannot wait to see the impact they will make this March. 

Don’t Miss Early Bird Pricing  

Be part of the global community coming together in Orlando. Register for Alliance 2026 by February 11 to snag the Early Bird rate and join our US Scholarship winners along with thousands of higher education professionals for learning, connection, and inspiration.