District of Columbia College Access Program

This evening, DC CAP will host Turning the Tassel 2026 — our inaugural graduation celebration, and the first time in our history that we're honoring graduating scholars from every one of our University Partners in a single room.

Since 1999, we've worked from one conviction: a student’s personal circumstances should never determine whether or not they earn a college degree. Today, we work hard to support our scholars by pairing financial support with intensive, year-round coaching to ensure they succeed. Tonight's celebration is a testament to what becomes possible when a city invests in its students and refuses to accept anything less for them.

To the partners, champions, sponsors, and donors who made this possible — thank you. Tonight wouldn't happen without you. Your support translates to the scholarship that kept a student enrolled, the coach who picked up the phone, and the network that opens doors after graduation.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🎓

Read more: https://www.dccap.org/blog/inaugural-turning-the-tassel-celebration

Attention DC CAP Graduating Scholars 📣

You've worked incredibly hard to reach college graduation — and WE want to celebrate YOU.

Join your fellow DC CAP Scholars for a special night at Philippe Chow DC at The Wharf on June 3, 2026.

Here's what to look forward to:

🤝 Networking — Connect with industry leaders, DC CAP corporate partners, and alumni ready to help launch your career. Think career fair meets party — casual conversations that could lead to internships, jobs, or mentorship.

🍽️ Incredible Food & Drinks — Enjoy passed bites and beverages courtesy of Philippe Chow.

🎁 Prizes & Gifts — Walk away with keepsakes, surprises, and special giveaways curated just for you.

🎶 Music & Activations — Enjoy live music and interactive experiences designed to celebrate YOU and your achievements.

If you haven't already received an invite, or for more details on how to register, please reach out to your student success coach. They'll be able to share our RSVP link and any additional details you might need.

Please note: registration WILL BE required to attend. For any additional questions, please reach out to [email protected].

We are proud to announce a new partnership with the Trae Young Family Foundation!

The Trae Young Family Foundation, led by Washington Wizards guard and four-time NBA All-Star Trae Young, is committing $50,000 to support our scholars and the work we do every day, helping D.C. students get to and through college.

Partnerships like this make a real difference. They fund scholarships. They keep our coaches in students' corners. And they send a powerful message to young people across the District: your city is invested in your future.

We're so grateful that the Foundation and Trae are making this kind of commitment to DC. Thank you for partnering with us on this important work. 🎓

📢 Attention DC students! The deadline to apply for DC CAP Scholars' Ward 7 & 8 and University Partner Scholarships is February 28, 2026, at 11:59 PM.

If you or someone you know is eligible, now is the time to apply. Submit your application and take the next step toward your academic goals. 🎓 apply.dccap.org

We’re pleased to announce that Marymount University has joined DC CAP’s University Partnership network. Marymount is now available to students applying through DC CAP — adding a four-year degree option that combines academic rigor with strong professional preparation in the D.C. region.

Located just minutes from Washington, D.C., Marymount connects students to internships, applied learning, and early career opportunities across government, nonprofit, tech, and corporate sectors. This partnership expands access to career-connected pathways for D.C. students seeking a personalized, supportive college experience.

We’re pleased to announce that Trinity Washington University is joining DC CAP’s University Partnership network. Starting in January 2026, Trinity will be available as an option for students seeking a four-year degree rooted in DC.

With small class sizes, strong academic programs, and on-the-ground internship opportunities across the city, Trinity Washington offers an amazing option for D.C. students wanting quality higher education while staying closer to home.

Read more about our new partnership here: https://www.dccap.org/blog/dc-cap-scholars-announces-new-partnership-with-trinity-washington-university

We’re honored to be included among the organizations supported by MacKenzie Scott this year.

This recognition comes at a moment of strong forward momentum for DC CAP as we continue focusing on college completion and long-term outcomes for DC students. It reflects confidence in a model centered on sustained support, strong partnerships, and results that extend beyond enrollment.

We’re grateful for the trust placed in our work and committed to using this moment to continue helping students persist through graduation and into meaningful careers.

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