The Cowen Institute equips leaders and practitioners with skills and resources to increase educational and postsecondary success among New Orleans students.

We believe a stronger future for New Orleans begins with equipping the people who guide our students every day. Through trusted research, practical tools, and collaborative training, we empower educators and counselors with the skills and resources they need to open doors to opportunity. Together, we’re increasing educational achievement and postsecondary success for every student in our city.

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We contextualize data and provide thought leadership.

We research New Orleans’ public education school system — the most decentralized in America — and share our findings in an unbiased, accessible way for members of our community and nationwide. We also use direct public engagement, advocacy, and strategic initiatives to frame discussions on the future of public and higher education.

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We build capacity among educational leaders and practitioners.

The Cowen Institute fosters collaboration and leads professional development for high school counselors, practitioners, and youth-serving organizations to increase college and career access, persistence, and success for New Orleans youth. We also share data and host convenings aimed at increasing post-secondary outcomes for New Orleans youth We lead the College and Career Counseling Collaborative, the New Orleans College Persistence Collaborative, the New Orleans Data Collaborative, and the New Orleans FAFSA Campaign.

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Our Impact in New Orleans

  • 9,263high school students supported through NOLA CCAN

  • 500+Tulane students engaged with our publications

  • 14,000students reached in New Orleans and beyond

  • 3,500+hours of community service and mentorship from Tulane students

  • 28 of 30NOLA public high schools engaged through our programs

Upcoming Events

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    Jan 15, 3:36pm

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