The Fellowship kicks off in January 2026 with remote orientation, advocacy training, and a hands-on training session which will take place at the COABE 2026 national conference in a live/virtual setting. After receiving coaching and inspiration, fellows will speak directly with members of Congress, governors, mayors, and their staff. Throughout the rest of the year, fellows will receive ongoing training via webinars and one-on-one coaching sessions. They will hone their advocacy skills by writing letters to the editor, organizing statewide activities in collaboration with their state association, and organizing legislative meetings and events.

SAAEF fellows are passionate, committed, everyday individuals that use their voices to influence political decisions that will impact the field of adult education in positive ways. Fellows receive training, support, and inspiration to become skilled advocates to effectively advise policy makers, guiding them toward decisions that enable lawmakers, the media, and funders to support adult education. SAAEF fellows realize the incredible power they possess to use their voices to change the world.