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January 2026

Olympia Is Back in Session. Washington Students Are Counting on It.
Olympia Is Back in Session. Washington Students Are Counting on It. 600 600 College Promise Coalition

NEWSLETTER

Olympia Is Back in Session. Washington Students Are Counting on It.

January 27, 2026

As the legislative session gets underway in Olympia, the stakes for Washington students are coming into sharp focus.

Lawmakers have convened at a moment when students are doing everything asked of them. They are setting goals, pursuing credentials, and preparing to contribute to Washington’s economy. The question now is whether state leaders will meet that momentum with the investments students need to succeed.

Across the state, students, families, educators, and advocates are working to keep postsecondary opportunity within reach. As the session begins, those efforts deserve strong follow-through from policymakers.

Students Are Ready. Washington Must Be Ready Too.

Over the past year, we have shared stories of students like Zari, Colton, and Rodrigo, who have big dreams for their futures. They want to earn credentials, build skills, and step into careers that support themselves, their families, and their communities.

Their stories reflect a broader reality. Washington’s economy is expected to see more than 1.5 million job openings by 2032, driven by growth and retirements. Seventy-five percent of those jobs will require education beyond high school, including degrees, apprenticeships, and industry-aligned certificates. Students understand this reality and are preparing accordingly.

The Opportunity Ahead Is Significant

Recent progress shows what is possible when barriers are removed. Financial aid completion has reached record levels and enrollment among students receiving need-based aid is rebounding.

With the legislative session now underway, decisions made in Olympia will determine whether Washington builds on recent gains or allows opportunity to slip out of reach. Postsecondary education has already absorbed significant cuts, affecting colleges, universities, and the student aid programs that help keep opportunity within reach. Further reductions would put that progress at risk.

This Is the Moment to Act

That is why the College Promise Coalition has launched a Contact Your Legislators tool. In just a few clicks, you can send a message urging lawmakers to prioritize education beyond high school so students can succeed and Washington’s economy can thrive.

When legislators hear directly from constituents, it reinforces what student stories and data already show: education beyond high school is essential to economic mobility, workforce readiness, and a strong future for our state.

Together, we can support students, strengthen our economy, and build a more equitable future for Washington.

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Tamariya Smith
Tamariya Smith 366 366 College Promise Coalition

“I wish more students knew that the Washington College Grant is available to so many people and can make college possible when it might otherwise feel out of reach.”

Tamariya Smith is a Washington College Grant recipient pursuing her passion for early childhood education. She recently earned her Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and is continuing her studies at North Seattle College in the Early Childhood Education Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) program. In this Q&A, Tamariya shares how her passion for helping young learners and the support of financial aid have shaped her journey to higher education.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and where you are in your education journey right now?

My name is Tamariya Smith. I recently graduated with my Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and am now continuing my education at North Seattle College in the Early Childhood Education Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) program.

What are your goals after college?

After college, my goal is to become an early childhood educator and eventually take on a leadership role in education, where I can help shape classrooms that nurture and support young learners.

What inspired you to pursue college?

I was inspired to pursue college because I’ve always had a passion for working with children and wanted to make a difference in their lives. I knew education would give me the knowledge and tools to turn that passion into a career.

What challenges have you faced, and how have you worked through them?

There have definitely been challenges along the way, especially balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities. What helped me overcome them was the support of my family, my instructors, and financial aid resources that made it possible for me to stay in school.

Who or what has been most helpful during your journey at North Seattle?

A few programs and professors at North Seattle have really guided me and encouraged me to pursue the BAS program, which has helped me feel confident about the path I’m on.

The Washington College Grant: Tell us a bit more about it and your reaction when you learned you qualified?

When I found out I qualified, I felt incredibly relieved and grateful, because it meant I could continue my education without so much financial stress. It’s been life-changing because it’s allowed me to continue my studies full-time while focusing on my career goals. Without it, I likely would have had to work more hours, delay my education, or take out loans.

What advice would you give to other students thinking about applying for financial aid?

I wish more students knew that the Washington College Grant is available to so many people and can make college possible when it might otherwise feel out of reach. My advice to other students is to never assume you won’t qualify. Always apply for financial aid. It can open doors you didn’t even think were possible.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about?

I’m most excited about finishing my BAS program and starting my career as an early childhood educator.

How do you hope to make a difference through your work?

Through my education, I hope to make a difference by supporting children during their most important years of development and being a positive role model for other students in my community who are thinking about pursuing higher education.

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Marc-Antony Johnson
Marc-Antony Johnson 1440 1920 College Promise Coalition

“Financial aid doesn’t just fund an education. It builds opportunity, and that benefits all of us.”

Marc-Antony Johnson is a Washington College Grant recipient, currently attending the University of Washington Tacoma as part of the Class of 2029. He transferred from Evergreen State College to pursue law and is already active in student groups focused on activism and lobbying at the State Capitol.

Can you tell me a little about your journey to the University of Washington Tacoma?

I transferred from Evergreen State College to UW Tacoma with a clear purpose: to study law. UW Tacoma was the right choice for me, it is credible, close to home, affordable compared to other options, and deeply connected to local communities of color. I knew it was where I could grow both as a student and as an advocate.

What role has financial aid played in making your education possible?

Honestly, I would not be here without financial aid. I live in a household of seven family members, and four of us, myself included, have to work just to make ends meet. Even with that, the cost of college would be out of reach if I did not have the Washington College Grant, scholarships, and other aid. Without it, I would be pressured into working full-time to help my family stay afloat, and I would likely have to step away from school.

Beyond academics, how have you been involved on campus and in the community?

I have already been part of two student groups focused on activism and lobbying at the State Capitol. Those experiences have really shaped my perspective, and I want to carry them forward as I continue my studies.

Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals?

My ultimate goal is to attend law school. But the cost of graduate education is overwhelming. If I had to take on heavy debt just to finish my undergraduate degree, law school would be impossible for me. That is why financial aid is so important.

Why do you believe financial aid matters for Washington students as a whole?

Financial aid is not just about me, it’s about all students in Washington, about our families, our communities, and the state as a whole. Slashing it would hurt everyone. If we want a future where students can thrive, build careers, and give back, we have to keep those doors open. Financial aid does not just fund an education. It builds opportunity, and that benefits all of us.

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Zari Warden
Zari Warden 755 790 College Promise Coalition

“Without the Washington College Grant, I would’ve worked more hours outside of work-study and felt more financially insecure. I most likely would have taken out an additional loan, which would’ve been an additional financial hardship. I’m lucky to have not experienced that!”

Zari Warden is a Washington Grant recipient, currently attending Pacific Lutheran University and studying Communication (Film and Media) and Gender, Sexuality, and Race Studies, and minoring in music. In this Q&A, she shares the details of her journey to higher education.

Can you introduce yourself and share what you’re studying?

My name is Zari Warden. I attend Pacific Lutheran University. I study Communication (Film and Media) and Gender, Sexuality, and Race Studies. I am also minoring in music.

What are your goals after graduation?

My main career goal after college is to pursue marketing and communications work for nonprofit organizations. My other goals include making and performing my original songs and working on a podcast series I started for my senior capstone.

Why did you decide to go to college?

I initially considered making music full-time, but I didn’t have the resources. So, I applied to various colleges and chose PLU because of my financial aid package. I’m glad I went because I found my passion for content creation and active advocacy work. I learned about my and others’ various identities and communities and gained a new perspective on how I want to live.

What challenges have you faced in college?

The most significant challenge I faced was learning how to prioritize myself, my needs, and the people I wanted in my life. PLU’s counseling center helped me get on track to find a full-time therapist. Also, taking the ideals from my Gender, Sexuality, and Race classes, such as rest being resistance, finding pleasure, and building meaningful relationships, helped me combat the urge to partake in grind culture, unrealistic expectations, and harmful interactions.

When did you first learn about the Washington College Grant? How did you feel when you found out you qualified?

I hadn’t heard about the Washington College Grant until I read my financial aid package from PLU. All I knew then was that I received additional support because of my family income and that the state helped me, but I didn’t have any other details. Nonetheless, the grant saved me SO much money these past four years. When I learned I qualified, my reaction was, “Great, I won’t be in as much student loan debt!” And that goes for all of my financial aid from the state and federal levels. That financial support lifted a massive weight off my shoulders.

Would you have gone to college without financial aid?

My parents expected me to attend college, whether I received financial aid or not. And I didn’t have any other plans. However, the grant alleviated the stress of how much I would’ve had to pay out of pocket or take out in private loans in addition to my federal loans.

What would college have looked like without the WA Grant

Without the Washington College Grant, I would’ve worked more hours outside of work-study and felt more financially insecure. I most likely would have taken out an additional loan, which would’ve been an additional financial hardship. I’m lucky to have not experienced that!

What do you wish more students knew about financial aid?

I wish more students had more education about financial aid, such as applying for FAFSA. Many underprivileged students don’t know how or have the resources to learn how to apply. I was lucky my mom could help me fill it out, but not everyone has parents or family members who can assist with that process.

What’s your advice for students applying to college?

My advice is to apply, even if it seems scary or overwhelming! If you need resources or assistance, go to someone you trust and ask where or who you can go to for help.

What are you most excited about post-graduation?

I’m most excited to continue impacting the community using the skills and resources I’ve discovered and which I carry with me. I’ve grown a lot in the past four years and learned about relationships between myself and others. I can’t wait to take everything with me as I continue my professional and personal journeys.

How do you hope to use your education in the future?

I aspire to use my education to help people join in solidarity, unity, and communal action. I also hope my education will strengthen my connections with my family, friends, workplace, and community.

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Colton Nussbaum
Colton Nussbaum 327 330 College Promise Coalition

“Receiving the Washington College Grant changed the question from ‘Can I afford higher education?’ to ‘What school do I want to go to?’”

Colton Nussbaum, a Washington Grant recipient currently attending Whitworth University and studying business management and minoring in music, discusses his journey to higher education in this Q&A!

Tell us a bit about yourself!

My name is Colton Nussbaum, and I go to Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington. I’m a senior, studying business management and minoring in music. After college, I hope to find work in the music business. I want to work with others, building teams to accomplish projects that support an industry that fuels my passion. I have a passion for music and creativity but want to use my business degree for work.

What inspired you to pursue college? Any challenges along the way?

I decided to pursue higher education because after high school, I knew I had more potential to learn. Also, coming from a very small town, I became filled with the urge to get out and see more of the world.

One challenge I faced early on was switching my major. I completed my freshman year as a music major, but by the end of the year, I found myself burnt out. The following summer, I had to make the choice to switch away from what I thought I’d major in. I ended up with an advisor in each discipline, both of whom helped me navigate this decision. Thankfully, I was able to switch to business without complications and take a minor in music.

Are there any classes, programs, or activities that have helped you figure out your path?

At Whitworth, I’ve been president of pep band for two years and vice president for one. My involvement in pep band provides the opportunity to pursue music, even if not a major. The band has also allowed me to find my passion for leading and inspiring others.

You’re a recipient of the Washington College Grant (WA Grant). How did you first hear about it?

I was told about the Washington College Grant when I was in late high school and exploring college as my next step. My high school advisor was helpful, informing me of options and available state assistance. When I discovered the amount of aid I would receive from the Washington College Grant, I was remarkably grateful. I realized that college was really something I could do without excessive financial worry. Above all, I felt inspired and supported to keep learning!

How has receiving the WA Grant impacted your ability to pursue college or training?

Receiving the Washington College Grant changed the question from “Can I afford higher education?” to “What school do I want to go to?” It has allowed me to self-fund my education with part-time work and reduce my overall debt. With the tuition support, I was also able to afford unique opportunities. For example, my junior year, as part of the Wind Symphony, I went on tour to Thailand. Experiencing Asian culture has been impactful for my overall growth and college experience.

Had I not received the WA Grant, I would be much more worried about my student loans than my educational journey—that is if I had attended college at all.

What do you wish more students knew about the WA Grant or financial aid in general?

Washington students should take financial aid seriously. Our state is generous in providing programs, but the work is on you to identify, understand, and apply to these programs. Even if you are unsure about attending college, you should apply for financial aid. It may take financial hardship out of your already big choice about pursuing higher education.

What are you most excited about for your future?

As I approach graduation this spring, I am very excited for change. I’ve kept myself busy in my undergrad and am ready to change the pace to working life.

How do you hope your education will help you make a difference—in your family, community, or field?

My education has prepared me to live out the Whitworth Mission to “honor God, follow Christ, and serve humanity.” Within the diversity at Whitworth, I’ve been able to explore faith in both an individual and a business realm. Inspiring others and building togetherness is what I strive to do in my future. Thanks to Whitworth and the funding that makes it possible, I believe I’m nearly ready to do so!

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Rodrigo Ortiz Mendoza
Rodrigo Ortiz Mendoza 1280 1920 College Promise Coalition

“Be sure to apply for FAFSA. Just apply—it doesn’t hurt, and you never know what you might qualify for.”

Rodrigo Ortiz Mendoza, a Washington Grant recipient currently attending Western Washington University and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in Management Information Systems, discusses his journey to higher education in this Q&A!

Can you tell us a little about yourself and why you decided to go to college?

My name is Rodrigo Ortiz Mendoza, and I’m currently attending Western Washington University, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a concentration in Management Information Systems. I was born in Guatemala, where education, especially in the small town where I grew up, wasn’t the best. When I was around six years old, my family moved to the United States—a decision that changed our lives forever.

What inspired you to pursue higher education?

My dad always wanted to pursue higher education but couldn’t because he needed to work to support our family. We moved back and forth between Guatemala and the U.S., which made it impossible for him to go to school without sacrificing work. Despite this, my parents always encouraged my siblings and me to focus on school. That encouragement motivated me to study and work hard all the way through high school. I decided to go to college because I want a better future for myself.

What challenges did you face when deciding to go to college?

By my senior year of high school, I realized I had no idea where I wanted to go to college. I was overwhelmed by the cost and even considered not going at all. Coming from a low-income family, we simply didn’t have enough to cover the expenses of sending me and my sister to college without taking on thousands of dollars in loans. I was close to giving up on college and just working full-time, but I knew if I went down that route, I might never return to school.

What changed your mind and made college possible for you?

Thankfully, my high school counselor at Blaine introduced me to financial aid and scholarships. Before that, I didn’t know resources like FAFSA and scholarships even existed. Once I learned about them, I applied to FAFSA, the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS), and the WAVE scholarship—and I got them! Thanks to these programs and other scholarships, I’m able to attend college without the burden of overwhelming loans.

Have you had any impactful experiences during college?

Absolutely. I took on a work-study position, which has been an incredible learning experience. Last year, I also worked in an AmeriCorps position at my school and discovered my passion for helping people. These opportunities have shaped my career goals and reinforced my commitment to giving back.

What advice would you give to students considering college?

My biggest advice is to give it your all in high school and even in middle school. Your hard work will pay off—literally! Scholarships are often tied to good grades, and they can make a huge difference in your ability to attend college. Also, be sure to apply for FAFSA. Just apply—it doesn’t hurt, and you never know what you might qualify for. Plus, many scholarships require a FAFSA application as part of the process.

You currently work directly with students. How has that shaped your perspective?

In 2024, I was hired by Futures NW, where I help others navigate the FAFSA application process. It’s an amazing opportunity to guide students and families who might feel uncertain or skeptical about how FAFSA works. Through my story, I can show them that even if you don’t come from a lot of money, FAFSA can open doors you never thought possible.

How do you help students overcome FAFSA challenges?

The FAFSA process can be overwhelming and confusing, which leads some people to give up entirely. Despite its challenges, FAFSA is a game-changer. With my growing knowledge, I help students and families navigate the process, making it easier and less intimidating. It’s incredibly rewarding to know I can make a difference in their lives.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I want to thank Futures NW for giving me the opportunity to help others and for opening a new path in my life. I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me on my journey, and I hope my story inspires others to pursue their dreams through education.

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College Promise Coalition

The College Promise Coalition is a broad-based group advocating for increased higher education access and opportunity for Washington students.

cpc@collegepromisewashington.org

© 2026 | Paid for by College Promise Coalition

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