Ahead of the NCGA Session: North Carolina Legislators Gather for 23rd Holshouser Legislators Retreat

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Lorenzo Pedro
lpedro@hunt-institute.org | (828) 390-9413

CARY, N.C. (April 16, 2026) — The Hunt Institute will host its 23rd Annual Holshouser Legislators Retreat on April 19–20, 2026, in Durham, NC, bringing together state legislators from across North Carolina to address the state’s most pressing education issues.

The 2026 Retreat is hosted in partnership with bipartisan and bicameral Co-Chairs, Senators Sydney Batch, Brad Overcash, and Representatives Zach Hawkins, and David Willis, reflecting The Hunt Institute’s long-standing commitment to fostering bipartisan leadership in service of students and the state’s future.

“For more than two decades, the Holshouser Legislators Retreat has been a cornerstone gathering for North Carolina lawmakers,” said Dr. Javaid Siddiqi, President and CEO of The Hunt Institute. “As we mark The Hunt Institute’s 25th anniversary and honor the life and legacy of Governor Jim Hunt, this convening reflects our enduring commitment to brining policymakers together in a nonpartisan setting to strengthen relationships and elevate policy conversations that benefit students across North Carolina and the nation.”

Held annually since 2003, the Holshouser Legislators Retreat honors former North Carolina Governor James E. Holshouser Jr., by convening members of the North Carolina General Assembly in a trusted, bipartisan setting. Convened by The Hunt Institute, founded by Governor James B. Hunt Jr., the Retreat brings legislators together across party lines and chambers to engage in thoughtful dialogue on pressing education and workforce policy issues, reflecting a shared commitment to collaboration and informed policymaking.

“Strong education policy strengthens our communities, builds a skilled workforce, and drives North Carolina’s economy. The Holshouser Legislators Retreat is a valuable space to collaborate on solutions that benefit every student and our state.” Said Retreat Co-Chair, Representative David Willis – NC House District 16 (Union County).

Over two days, legislators will engage with national experts, state leaders, and practitioners to explore data-informed solutions across the full education continuum—from early childhood through postsecondary education and workforce development. Sessions will focus on aligning policy with the evolving needs of North Carolina’s students, families, and employers; while providing legislators with actionable insights they can carry into the upcoming legislative session.

The Hunt Institute is honored to welcome Josh Stein, the 76th Governor of North Carolina and a member of The Hunt Institute’s fourth cohort of the Hunt-Kean Leadership Fellows program, who will deliver remarks during the Retreat. His leadership and longstanding commitment to public service and education and his remarks will contribute to the conversations ahead as legislators prepare for the upcoming session.

Additionally, legislators will hear from Mo Green, Superintendent of the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, who will share insights on the state’s education landscape and priorities for North Carolina’s students.

“North Carolina’s future depends on whether students can see a path forward for themselves, and whether they have real opportunities to follow it. Keeping students at the center of our work means connecting education to opportunity, purpose, and a stronger future for every community in our state. We’re grateful to The Hunt Institute for bringing leaders together around the priorities that matter most.” Said Co-Chair, Senate Democratic Leader, Sydney Batch – NC Senate District 17 (Wake County). 

About The Hunt Institute

The Hunt Institute, an affiliate of Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy, is a leader in transforming public education. Marshaling expertise from a nationwide partner network since its establishment in 2001, The Institute brings together people and resources that help build and nurture visionary leadership and mobilize strategic action for greater educational outcomes and student success. For more information, please visit: http://www.hunt-institute.org/