In February 2026, SHEEO held an in-person convening of its Chief Research and Data Officers (CDROs) constituency group in Charleston, SC. Designed specifically for leaders of SHEEO agency research and data offices, this invitation-only gathering was designed to strengthen connections among peers, share effective strategies for improving state data collection and use, and highlight ways to translate data into stronger policy, practice, and impact. Convening sessions included both formal and table top discussions focused on current priorities, demands, and strategies in agency research and data work; findings from the most recent Strong Foundationssurvey; opportunities to better integrate information about rural learners and institutions in state data systems; measuring value and return-on-investment; the changing federal data landscape, including negotiated rulemaking outcomes and their implications for states; and other topics of particular interest to CRDOs and their teams. Formal presentations from the event can be found below: