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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


  • Halfway through the fiscal year, NIH lags on grantmaking schedule

    March 31, 2026

    As the halfway point of the federal fiscal year passes, the NIH has only obligated around 15 percent of the estimated $38 billion it has to distribute in grants and contracts, according to analysis by the Association of American Medical Colleges. The 43-day-long government shutdown in October and November is partially responsible for these delays, as well as…

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  • Trump delays naming new CDC Director

    March 26, 2026

    The White House remains on a time crunch to name a permanent director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Under federal law, Senate-confirmed positions have a 210-day limit on being led by acting replacements, a deadline which passed last night. The Health Department announced yesterday that Dr. Jay Bhattacharya will continue to oversee…

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  • Trump administration announces student loan office will move to Treasury Department

    March 19, 2026

    As part of the Trump administration’s ongoing pledge to dismantle the Education Department, the agency plans to shift the federal government’s student loan portfolio to the Treasury Department. Moving the nearly $1.7 trillion portfolio out of ED has been a longtime goal for conservatives. In March, President Trump caught many by surprise by announcing the…

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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