Message from the Chair

February 2026 NACAC Board Meeting Update

Two weeks ago, the NACAC Board of Trustees gathered on the campus of George Mason University (VA) for our May 4–5 board meeting. The campus was buzzing and alive with students. It was a powerful reminder of why we do this work. Being in that environment grounded our conversations in purpose and in the real, daily impact of our shared purpose and profession.

George Mason holds special meaning in my own journey, as it was formative in shaping my early leadership in admission. It was especially meaningful to welcome the board to campus and even tour them through my former office, reflecting on both how far the work has come and the enduring importance of access, opportunity, and student-centered practice.

Over the course of our time together, the board engaged in thoughtful dialogue about NACAC’s future and the role we play in shaping it. Two strategic sessions, facilitated by Adam Brumer, principal of Brumer Consulting, helped anchor this work. In one session, we focused on defining NACAC’s strategic priorities for the next three-to-five years. In the other, we engaged in a creative exercise to begin planning our celebration of the organization’s 90th anniversary in 2027—something that fills me with pride as I reflect on the longevity and impact of our association.

A highlight of the meeting was a candid conversation with George Mason University President Gregory Washington and David Burge, vice president for enrollment management and former NACAC board president. They shared insights into how they lead and inspire their teams, emphasizing the importance of staying anchored in institutional values while prioritizing physical and mental well-being. Their reflections were both practical and deeply human, offering an important reminder that leadership, especially in challenging times, requires discipline, care, and self-management—something NACAC CEO Angel B. Pérez wrote about recently.

We were also joined by NACAC’s audit partners, GRF CPAs & Advisors, who briefed us on economic trends affecting non-profit organizations. Their perspective reinforced how important financial stewardship and forecasting are as we position NACAC for long-term sustainability.

During our formal business meeting, the board reviewed standard governance items, including a financial report on NACAC’s first-quarter 2026 performance. In my report on behalf of the Executive Committee, I shared updates on several key actions, including the approval of this year’s NACAC award recipients, next steps in the board chair-elect selection process, and revisions to the Guide to Ethical Practice in College Admission.

While much of our work focused on governance and strategy, what stood out most was a shared commitment to leading NACAC with intention as we look to the future. The challenges facing our profession, and higher education more broadly, are real. But so, too, is the strength of this community and the clarity of our purpose.

Thank you for the work you do every day in service to students. It matters deeply. And it is what continues to move us forward. Together, we are NACAC!

With appreciation,

Derek Jay DuBose
Chair of the Board
NACAC Board of Trustees