A View From Washington:

Federal Policy & Innovation in Higher Ed

Part of the VentureWell Innovation in Action Learning Series

As federal policy continues to evolve at a rapid pace, how can higher education leaders, researchers, and innovation ecosystems navigate the uncertainty?

Join us on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. ET for a live, one-hour briefing with Leslee Gilbert, vice president at Van Scoyoc Associates and one of Washington’s leading policy advocates for higher education and research. She’ll unpack the latest developments impacting STEM, innovation, and institutional funding—and share what leaders need to know now.

Drawing from her experience as Deputy Staff Director for the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, Gilbert will provide an insider’s perspective on:

  • Emerging federal policies shaping research, innovation, and STEM education

  • The broader context behind key policy changes—including recent Executive Orders

  • Strategic insights on how leaders can position themselves and their institutions for success in a shifting landscape

This webinar will be moderated by national STEM expert Ashley Huderson, senior director of programs at The American Society of Mechanical Engineers, who will provide insights about the importance of STEM innovation in the higher education landscape.

This live-only session offers attendees the chance to submit questions in advance and during the webinar. Gilbert’s approach blends big-picture context with practical guidance, making this briefing a must-attend for anyone seeking clarity amid uncertainty.

About the Speakers

Leslee Gilbert

Leslee Gilbert has an extensive background in higher education, research, technology development, and politics. She has over 25 years of hands-on experience in the Washington policy-making progress, and over 30 years of experience working in and with institutions of higher education and innovation organizations. Learn more here.

Ashley Huderson

Ashley Huderson has over 15 years of dedicated experience in STEM outreach and advocacy. She is passionate about fostering a love for STEM among diverse communities. Previously, she served as a STEM and CS Equity Policy Advisor at the U.S. Department of Education, where she shaped and executed a STEM and CS strategy aligned with the U.S. Deputy Secretary's vision for STEM education. Learn more here.