Getting Ready for the 2026 Xcalibur Conference - Rooted in Results: Align, Adjust, Achieve

The Xcalibur Evaluation Team is excited to convene a community of GEAR UP professionals who are committed to advancing college access and success through data-driven, equity-centered strategies. This year’s theme, Rooted in Results: Align, Adjust, Achieve, reflects both the complexity of the work and the intentionality required to drive meaningful student outcomes.

This conference will refocus attendees on their logic models by examining key outcomes in more detail. Whether you are starting a new grant, nearing closeout, or preparing to apply for new funding, this offers an opportunity to reflect on and refine your approach to program implementation and data use for continuous improvement.

First, we will Align by grounding grant work in research and data. Participants will revisit GEAR UP literature related to GEAR UP activities and student outcomes, alongside their program’s goals, logic model, and performance measures. Sessions will focus on how current grant activities clearly align with intended outcomes and Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) outcomes.

Second, we will Adjust by reflecting on what is working well and where improvements are needed. Participants will identify areas of program success and examine opportunities for re-focus or refinement. Using the Xcalibur data management system (SCRIBE) embedded outcomes dashboards, we will dive into service participation, GPRA measures, and overall program outcomes to inform strategic action planning; participation in these data dives does not require being a current SCRIBE user. 

Next, we will Achieve by turning insights into action planning. Xcalibur believes conference sessions should be designed to move beyond discussion and toward implementation for program improvement. Participants will identify specific GPRA measures and services to focus on improvement and develop strategies to strengthen program outcomes. Our goal is for every participant to leave not only informed but equipped to make meaningful, data-informed improvements.

Finally, participants will engage in collective learning. One of the most valuable aspects of Xcalibur Conferences is the opportunity for attendees to learn from peers. This year, we are elevating that experience by featuring a panel of high-performing GEAR UP professionals who have demonstrated strong results on key GPRA measures. Panelists will share strategies, lessons learned, and how they have navigated unique contexts and challenges in service delivery.

The 2026 Xcalibur Conference is designed as a working space for advancing program effectiveness. As GEAR UP grants navigate evolving expectations and shifting landscapes, the collective ability to align efforts, adjust strategies, and achieve measurable outcomes is more critical than ever.  We look forward to welcoming participants in Savannah, GA, the land of Southern charm, historic beauty, and warm hospitality to engage deeply in sessions and collaborate with fellow GEAR UP professionals.