Message from the President

Dear HECSE Members and Constituencies,

On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our sincere appreciation for your ongoing contributions to our field. Preparing the next generation of special education leaders and advancing research in special education remain critical to the success of our nation’s schools and communities.

Advocacy for special education leadership preparation and research lies at the heart of HECSE’s mission—to “promote access, equity, and opportunity through advocacy that advances special education leadership and research on behalf of students with disabilities and their families” (HECSE, 2024). As we navigate today’s complex federal policy landscape, we remain steadfast in upholding that mission and in amplifying the collective voice of our members.

Our work includes year-round advocacy for the foundational principles embedded in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), particularly Part D. We believe deeply in the collective power of our member institutions to address the evolving educational needs of individuals with disabilities, their families, and the personnel who serve them. Together, we are meeting this moment with determination—educating policymakers and the public about the essential role of special education personnel development and research in improving outcomes for all learners.

Each year, our efforts culminate in the HECSE Winter Summit, where members engage directly with Congressional Representatives to share evidence, stories, and impact from our collective work. Through both collective and individual advocacy, we demonstrate to Congress and the American people the transformative outcomes generated by our faculty and programs through federal investments in special education leadership and research.

HECSE is now accepting registration for members for the HECSE Winter Summit, which will be held beginning on January 28, 2025 at 10:00 AM through January 30, 2025 at 1:00 PM. Hotel reservations can be made at the Embassy Suites for the Sumit. We are also accepting applications for the HECSE Short Course, which will precede the HECSE Summit.

In advance of the Summit, we will connect attendees within each state so they may schedule appointments with their senators. We will also support institutions to develop materials that report outcomes for legislators that will be left with congressional offices.

As with all things in special education, we are stronger together. We are grateful for your service.

All my best,

Pamela Williamson, PhD