EDUCAUSE Connect Access Changes: Frequently Asked Questions



About the Change

What is changing, and when?

Beginning July 1, 2026, EDUCAUSE Connect will become a members-only benefit.

  • Participation in Connect Community Groups will be aligned with EDUCAUSE member organizations.
  • Non-members may still log in to view limited information, such as community group descriptions and upcoming events.
Why is Connect becoming a members-only benefit?

EDUCAUSE is deeply invested in strengthening its community, and making Connect a members-only space is a key part of that commitment.

Over time, Connect has evolved into a central hub for meaningful professional exchange including conversations around complex and sensitive topics. Members have consistently shared that they value a trusted environment where they can engage candidly with peers.

By moving to a members-only model, we can:

  • Foster a trusted space for professional dialogue

  • Support deeper, more meaningful engagement

  • Continue to invest in Connect as a high-value member benefit

  • Ensure the platform evolves to meet the needs of higher education professionals

Why are you making this change now?

As both the EDUCAUSE community and the conversations within Connect have grown, so has the need for a more intentional, member-focused experience.

This change reflects direct feedback from members who are seeking:

  • Greater trust and privacy in discussions

  • Stronger community norms

  • More value from their membership

Moving to a members-only model allows us to invest more strategically in Connect and maintain a cohesive, high-quality community experience.

Will this change affect engagement on Connect?

We expect this change to strengthen engagement over time.

A members-only environment supports:

  • More open and candid conversations

  • Clearer expectations and community norms

  • Stronger peer connections

These elements help create a more active and engaged professional community.

Impact and Access

Who is affected by this change?

Individuals from organizations that are not currently members of EDUCAUSE will be impacted by this change. If you are unsure if your organization is a member, visit our Member Directory or contact us at [email protected] and our team will help verify your status.

What happens if I'm with a nonmember organization?

If your organization is not an EDUCAUSE member:

  • You will lose access to Connect Community Groups on July 1, 2026

  • You may still log in to view limited information (e.g., group listings and events)

What if my organization doesn't renew its membership?

Access to Connect is tied to organizational membership.

  • If membership expires, access to Connect’s full features will end until membership is renewed

  • If your organization does not renew for the 2026–27 membership year, access will end on July 1, 2026

I lost access. What should I do?

If your EDUCAUSE Profile account is not affiliated with a member organization, you will not have access to Connect’s community features.

If you believe you were impacted incorrectly, please contact our membership team at [email protected] for assistance.

Maintaining Access

Can nonmembers retain access to Connect?

To retain full access to Connect, your organization must be an EDUCAUSE member.

Learn more about membership options or contact our membership team for support.

Community Group Leadership and Committees

I'm a Community Group leader. If my CG members ask about this change, what should I share with them?

You can let your members know:

  • Connect will become a members-only space on July 1, 2026

  • This change supports a trusted environment for open professional exchange

  • Members have asked for more candid conversations

  • The shift will help foster stronger engagement and connections

Encourage nonmember participants to explore membership options or contact the membership team.

My committee uses Connect to collaborate. What are our options?

If your group is unable to access Connect, please contact your EDUCAUSE staff liaison to discuss alternative ways to collaborate.

Communications

Was I notified about this change?

EDUCAUSE shared notifications with impacted users throughout June 2026.

If you believe you did not receive these communications or were affected in error, please contact us so we can assist.

Questions?

If you have questions about your access or membership status, our membership team is here to help