Events - Alabama Possible

Stay up-to-date with Alabama Possible events! Each event is open to the public but might also have an intended audience listed in the description. On-demand recordings can be found at youtube.com/alabamapossible.

Upcoming

College Application Season Kickoff
Date: Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

College application season is here! In this webinar, educators will learn more about the Alabama College Application Campaign, which is part of a national effort to increase the number of first-generation college students and students from low-income families pursuing a postsecondary education credential. We’ll discuss everything you need to prepare for Alabama College Application Week (October 6-10), an entire week when colleges in and around our state waive their application fees for Alabama students. Additionally, we will share updates on the Alabama Direct Admissions Initiative and review important steps and deadlines that students must complete to create a Match profile. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536237.

Unlocking Opportunity Pt 2: Preparing for Student Offers and Counselor Insights
Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Time: 10:00AM – 11:00AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

Join us for a focused follow-up to Alabama’s Direct Admissions Initiative, hosted by Alabama Possible and led by Kory Smalzer from Match. With the October 6th release of direct admission offers to students just around the corner, this session is all about preparing counselors and schools for what’s next. After a brief recap of the initiative and key upcoming deadlines, we’ll dive into: How student admission offers will be released on October 6th; The tools and strategies counselors can use to help students understand and respond to their offers; A walkthrough of the real-time counselor data access, including insights on which colleges admitted which students; Best practices for guiding students through the next steps, from offer acceptance to FAFSA completion steps.

High school educators wishing to attend this training must register their high school for the Alabama Goes to College Campaign in order to participate. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #541005.

Cash for College: FAFSA 101 – Beginner
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a key step in pursuing and affording college. Cash for College, an initiative of the Alabama Goes to College Campaign, works to ensure every senior completes their FAFSA before graduation. The 2026–27 FAFSA launches in October, and we’re here to provide steps on how to prepare to support high school seniors in applying for financial aid. This webinar will cover basic financial aid concepts for completing the FAFSA. It is designed for educators with little to no experience assisting students with the FAFSA. More experienced educators should register for the option below. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536674.

Cash for College: FAFSA 101 – Experienced
Date: Thursday, September 18, 2025
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a key step in pursuing and affording college. Cash for College, an initiative of the Alabama Goes to College Campaign, works to ensure every senior completes their FAFSA before graduation. The 2026–27 FAFSA launches in October, and we’re here to offer a deeper understanding of the FAFSA and share updates to the application process as you prepare to support high school seniors in applying for financial aid. This webinar is intended for educators who have experience with completing the FAFSA. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536676.

Exploring Career Pathways
Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

In their final year of high school, seniors are contemplating what steps will carry them into their future career. High school educators guide students in career exploration by introducing them to new fields, assessing their interests, and charting their path forward. Join this webinar to hear strategies for supporting career exploration and preparation. Panelists will offer resources for educators as well as highlight exciting opportunities available to Alabama students. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536678.

College Admissions 101 (Part 1: In-State)
Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

The college admissions process can be a daunting task for families. In this webinar, college admission officers from in-state institutions will share content on their application, selection, and enrollment processes; potential scholarship opportunities; and standardized testing requirements. Learn how you can support and advise high school seniors as they navigate this process. This webinar is Part 1 of our series focused on admissions. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536680.

Cash for College: Scholarships 101
Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

Scholarships are one way to help defray the cost of college and other expenses associated with postsecondary pursuits. Scholarship tools allow students to discover and track funding opportunities that are a good match for their identity, location, area of study, and more. During this webinar, educators will preview scholarship resources and learn tips for applying. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536681.

Cash for College: Advanced FAFSA – Beginner
Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can be a challenging step in the postsecondary planning process. This webinar expands upon our previous FAFSA webinars to have a deeper dive into the FAFSA. Educators and community leaders will learn about common challenges and best practices for supporting students and families with the application process. More experienced educators should register for the option below. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536682.

Cash for College: Advanced FAFSA – Experienced
Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can be a challenging step in the postsecondary planning process. This webinar expands upon our previous FAFSA webinars to address some of the more complex components of the FAFSA. Educators and community leaders will learn about tools and resources that assist students and families in navigating complicated aspects of the application. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536684.

Cash for College: Navigating Financial Aid for Immigrant Families
Date: Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536685.

College Admissions 101 (Part 2: Out-of-State)
Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

The college application process involves multiple steps and can seem like a daunting task. During this discussion, college admissions officers from out-of-state institutions will address some concerns and basic inquiries about the application process. Panelists might also touch on topics such as institutional scholarships and fees for first-time first-year students. These insights will guide students who are looking at postsecondary pathways outside of Alabama. During this webinar, ample time is set aside so educators will have the opportunity to ask any college admissions-related questions to the presenters directly. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536689.

Charting Career Pathways
Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

Charting Career Pathways is a follow-up webinar to Exploring Career Pathways. During this webinar, educators will discuss charting or mapping out the next steps students would take as they approach graduation. Educators will hear from the presenters about how to connect students to post-graduation work opportunities, build relationships with local business partners, and facilitate and support students moving into the workforce. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536690.

Cash for College: Next Steps after Submitting a FAFSA
Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

After students submit their FAFSA, what happens next? Join this webinar to learn more about how the application is processed and what follow-up tasks students might need to complete, such as making corrections and providing verification documentation. We’ll also cover how to review and compare aid offers so that students can make informed financial decisions about their next steps. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536692.

College and Career Decision Day
Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Time: 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

College and Career Decision Day celebrates seniors committing to pursue education and training beyond high school, whether they’re enrolling in college, enlisting in the military, or joining the workforce. This workshop will discuss creative ways educators can celebrate the next steps of the Class of 2026. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536693.

Celebration Day and Professional Development Workshop
Date: Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Time: 10:30AM – 12:00PM
Audience: High school counselors, career coaches, educators; community-based organizations; postsecondary access & success professionals

In partnership with the Alabama State Department of Education, Alabama Possible will celebrate the successes of the 2025-26 school year. In addition to recognizing the Cash for College award winners, we’ll also feature some highlights from the Alabama College Application Campaign! Educators will have the opportunity to hear tips and strategies from their peers and receive professional development credit. Register for the webinar HERE.

High school educators can claim professional development credit by visiting alsde.truenorthlogic.com and using Course #333921, Section #536694.

Archived

With the new school year well under way, Alabama Possible is excited to launch the 2025-26 Alabama Goes to College campaign! The campaign equips Alabamians with tools so that every student can plan for, and pursue, a postsecondary pathway. In this kickoff event, we’ll review the fundamental components of the Alabama Goes to College Campaign: Alabama College Application Campaign, Cash for College (FAFSA completion), and College and Career Decision Day. This workshop will also cover campaign goals, timeline, and outreach materials that support high school educators and community leaders in building a college and career-ready culture.

The Alabama Direct Admission Initiative is opening new doors for every high school senior in the state! Watch this short video to see how it works, what’s coming next, and how you can get your students ready for their offers from 41 Alabama colleges. Training registration is open now - don’t miss your chance to be part of this game-changing program!

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/-NG7JF-sQAC9vYS4INYAcQ

In partnership with the Alabama State Department of Education, Alabama Possible will celebrate the successes of the 2024-25 school year. In addition to recognizing the Cash for College award winners, we’ll also feature some highlights from the Alabama College Application Campaign! Educators will have the opportunity to hear tips and strategies from their peers and receive professional development credit.

It’s Time to Celebrate Your Students’ Next Steps: College and Career Decision Day
College and Career Decision Day celebrates seniors committing to pursue education and training beyond high school, whether they’re enrolling  in college, enlisting in the military, or  joining the workforce. This workshop will discuss creative ways educators can celebrate the next steps of the Class of 2025.

Career readiness is about more than just education—it’s about aligning skills, passions, and opportunities to create meaningful economic pathways, especially for Gen Z, a generation that prioritizes purpose in their careers. This session will challenge outdated ideas about post-secondary success and explore the diverse routes young people take toward fulfilling careers. Instead of focusing solely on traditional four-year degrees, we’ll discuss how work experience, technical training, military service, and service-based programs like AmeriCorps can provide valuable stepping stones. Participants will engage in small-group discussions and reflections, sharing their own experiences with career exploration and the opportunities available in their communities. Through interactive conversations, they’ll examine what career readiness means for Gen Z in their own context, identify barriers that young people face in accessing meaningful careers, and explore ways to bridge those gaps. By the end of the session, participants will leave with actionable ideas for how they can support career exploration and workforce development in their own networks, whether through leveraging technology, strengthening partnerships, or rethinking how young people are introduced to career possibilities. This session aligns with the conference's theme of "Uniting Pathways: Aligning Education and Workforce in Alabama," by expanding industry leaders' understanding of what successful pathways can look like and highlights the power of strong partnerships between education, industry, and community organizations to effectively prepare young people for the workforce.

Presented by Amelia Hastings from Birmingham Corps.

There are several challenges that adult graduate learners face, including competition, resource limitations, organizational uncertainty, and lack of institutional expertise (Wallenstein, 2022). Also, graduate adult learners are often working professionals, have families, and may be returning to school after a long hiatus. Due to these challenges, it is critical that degree programs become intentional about student success through relationship building. The question arises: How can institutions create student success while building a sustainable, authentic working relationship with a graduate/professional adult learner? What are some ways that institutions can maintain these authentic working relationships until graduation?

Our workshop will introduce a case study of Northeast Community College in Nebraska, and their attempts to use partnership, qualitative data collection, and system-building practices to increase participation in dual credit/enrollment. We will begin by presenting the challenge, the conditions, and then walk through the multi-month change process used to create an action plan that redesigns internal dual credit/enrollment systems. We will then provide the steps, tools, frameworks, and processes used through the change process. Finally, attendees will have the chance to apply these learnings to their own context.

This workshop blends several of the conference topics together, including dual enrollment/early college, access strategies, culture building, and using coalition and system-building practices to increase enrollment. What's more is that these frameworks and processes can be used in other areas beyond early college, though the case study is one that is easily adaptable to any early college program given it is a context dependant.

Finally, we will also equip people with insights on the required conditions for this kind of change process to occur, and give attendees a chance to examine how they could build a culture and cultivate conditions for change.

Presented by Dakota Pawlicki from Civic Lab

Across the nation, community leaders are hoping to draw big business and industry to their states and cities. This session will take a look at Alabama’s status of childcare, how to source data specifically for individual communities, and a program review of Shelton State's latest initiative to engage community members and business and industry partners to increase childcare supply. Additional information will be provided on Alabama's new tax credit for childcare and how to utilize all available resources to the benefit of a stable workforce.

Presented by Holly Glasgow from Shelton State Community College

Collaboration across sectors is essential to aligning workforce initiatives with industry needs, driving Alabama’s economic growth and ensuring long-term competitiveness. However, communication barriers, misaligned priorities and siloed efforts often prevent these sectors from working together effectively over the long term. This session will explore strategies for cultivating meaningful engagement, improving communication and using data-driven decision-making to create alignment between key stakeholders. By emphasizing the principle that people support what they help to create, this session will provide insight into how organizations can develop inclusive engagement strategies, communicate results effectively and turn awareness into action.

The session will examine the common communication challenges that hinder collaboration, such as unclear messaging, stakeholder disengagement and biases in decision-making. These barriers often lead to ineffective workforce initiatives, underutilized resources and missed opportunities for regional economic success. The discussion will emphasize the need for consistent messaging, transparency and trust-building to facilitate long-term collaboration. By understanding how to align goals and create shared priorities, attendees will gain insight into strengthening partnerships across sectors.

Through real-world examples and case studies, the session will highlight strategies such as crafting compelling messaging, leveraging data to drive initiatives and maintaining continuous engagement. Success stories will showcase how cross-sector collaboration has influenced policy, secured funding and addressed workforce needs, providing participants with actionable insights they can apply within their own organizations.

A major component of the session will focus on campaign-driven strategies for awareness, engagement and action. Many initiatives fall short of creating meaningful impact because they focus solely on raising awareness instead of driving measurable change. This session will explore how to move beyond outreach efforts and create engagement campaigns that lead to actionable results. Attendees will gain insight into using digital platforms, storytelling techniques and targeted outreach to build momentum for workforce and economic initiatives.

Another critical discussion will center on preconceived biases in decision-making and how they affect collaboration. Biases can influence hiring, training program development, funding allocation and policy decisions, often resulting in inequitable outcomes and missed opportunities. The session will provide strategies for recognizing and mitigating these biases to ensure workforce and economic development efforts are more inclusive and data driven. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how awareness starts with education but must end with meaningful engagement that leads to measurable outcomes.

To reinforce these insights, the session will feature thought-provoking examples and strategic frameworks that attendees can apply to their own work. By analyzing best practices, participants will be encouraged to reflect on their communication approaches and identify areas for improvement. A summary of guiding principles and actionable takeaways will reinforce key insights.

By emphasizing practical strategies and real-world applications, this session will equip attendees with the tools and knowledge to enhance cross-sector communication, develop impactful engagement campaigns and mitigate biases in workforce and economic development. They will leave with a clear roadmap to strengthen collaboration and drive meaningful action, ensuring long-term success for their organizations and communities.

Presented by Danny Markstein of Markstein Co.

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