The NYSACAC Summer Institute is a three-day intensive mentor-based experience that brings together emerging professionals from all sides of the desk and energetic, seasoned mentors to grapple with a wide range of admission counseling issues. Summer Institute 2026 will take place at Marist University, from August 4th through August 6th. 

As a participant, you will learn best practices, share expertise, develop creative approaches to new and not-so-new problems, establish networks, and review ethical standards for our profession. We are certain that the unique combination of a vibrant curriculum and a diverse group of participants and mentors will offer you a refreshing and rewarding experience.

If you have any questions, please reach out to [email protected]. 

DETAILS AND REGISTRATION

Who
Summer Institute is designed for admissions professionals with up to three years of experience, as well as high school/CBO counselors and advisors with up to five years of experience. 

Dates
Tuesday, August 4, 2026 through Thursday, August 6, 2026
(Check-in no later than 1:00 pm on Tuesday. The program will end by 4:00 pm on Thursday.)

Location
Marist University in Poughkeepsie, NY    

Cost
$575 by July 1st ($625 after July 1st). Fee includes meals (except for one dinner on your own), an air-conditioned single room in a Marist residence hall, and program materials. Participants must reside in the residence hall throughout the institute. Overnight housing is available for an additional charge ($50) for participants wishing to arrive a day in advance on Monday and stay on campus. Please indicate your interest in arriving early on the registration form.

Registration
Registration for the 2026 NYSACAC Summer Institute will open soon! Check back later this Spring. 

THE MENTOR MODEL

The Institute’s mentors are accomplished colleagues who share a deep commitment to the profession and have diverse backgrounds with years of experience. The Institute’s curriculum focuses on developing three key areas:

• Professional Development
• Networking Opportunities
• Case Studies

The small mentor group is the primary mode of interaction and communication for the Institute, where attendees will learn from one another. Additionally, mentors and guest presenters will offer their expertise in the following Institute Topics:

• Admissions Travel
• Athletic Recruitment
• Building the College List
• Building Relationships
• College Access
• Counseling First Generation Students
• Cultural Diversity
• Ethical Issues
• Financial Aid
• Effective Presentations
• Implicit Bias
• Student Mental Health
• College Admissions Trends
• And More....

 SUMMER INSTITUTE PLANNING TEAM

Co-Directors
Stacy Ledermann
Assistant Vice President of Admissions
St. John Fisher University

Greg Wasserman
Director of Guidance and Support Services
Plainedge Union Free School District

Curriculum Director
Davin Sweeney
College Counselor
Avenues: The World School

Lead Mentor
Colette Montgomery
Director of First-Year Admission
LeMoyne College

Public Relations Coordinator
TBD