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OFFICE OF FEDERAL RELATIONS

As one of the world’s leading research universities, the University of Washington is proud to be a long-term partner with the federal government on a host of programs and initiatives to improve society.

Explore the 2026 Federal Agenda

Located steps from the U.S. Capitol at the Hall of the States, the Office of Federal Relations represents the University of Washington to both the legislative and executive branches of the federal government, participating on behalf of UW in a variety of national forums and advocating for UW priorities. The office also serves as a portal for the federal government and national organizations to the UW and as an access point for UW leadership and staff to our nation’s capital. Through regular reports and visits with campus personnel, Federal Relations staff provide timely information about national trends, opportunities and policy developments.

FY2026 Appropriations Tracker

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Stay up to date on federal priorities. Last updated 2/6/26.

View appropriations tracker here

Federal Lobbying Disclosure

President Jones and Senator Murray stand with four students and staff in front of eSciences studio.

We ask UW employees to coordinate advocacy with our office so that we can be clear, consistent, and comply with federal reporting requirements.

Learn more about guidelines

Congressional Meeting Resources

President Jones shaking hands.

Make the most of your time with congressional members and staff.

Tips for successful meetings

LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES


  • Reported plan to move student loan collections from Education Department to Treasury Department

    March 19, 2026

    As part of the Trump Administration’s ongoing pledge to dismantle the Education Department, the agency reportedly plans to transfer part of its federal student aid program to the Treasury Department. Two people familiar with the plans, granted anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter, said this agreement could come as…

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  • Jim O’Neill nominated as NSF director

    March 3, 2026

    President Trump has nominated Jim O’Neill to serve as Director of the National Science Foundation. His name was among a list of nominations sent to the Senate yesterday morning. O’Neill was removed from his position as deputy secretary of HHS last month as part of a broader restructuring, which also saw Jay Bhattacharya named acting…

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  • Senate HELP committee to vote on key bills

    February 19, 2026

     On Thursday, February 26, the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee will vote on several significant bills regarding access to quality education and health care. The bills under consideration include: S. 1602, Mathematical and Statistical Modeling Education Act S. 1558, Understanding the True Cost of College Act of 2025 S. 3747, Home School…

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CONTACT US

Office of Federal Relations

444 North Capitol St. NW

Suite 418

Washington, DC 20001

federalrelations@uw.edu

Sarah Castro

Assistant Vice President

202-624-1420

smcastro@uw.edu

Sang Han

Deputy Director

202-624-1420

sanghan1@uw.edu

Emily Wills

Federal Policy Associate

202-624-1420

emwills@uw.edu