ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Experts from the American Institutes for Research (AIR) will present at several sessions during the 2026 Society for Research on Educational Effectiveness (SREE) conference. The conference will be held September 23-26, 2026, at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront in Baltimore, MD.

AIR experts will share their work across a variety of topics, including work-based learning, high-quality instructional materials; individualized math instruction; digital learning programs; and more. Built around the theme, "Education and Public Trust: Evidence and Accountability in a Changing Landscape," the conference will bring together education researchers, policy leaders, and professionals from around the country.

AIR is a Silver Conference Sponsor and will have a booth available in the Exhibitor Hall. Sessions featuring AIR experts and their work are listed below (all times are in Eastern Daylight Time). Learn more about all conference presentations and activities on the conference website.

Wednesday, September 23

9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Workshop: Matching Methods for Multilevel Data in Education Research: A Practical Guide and Illustration of Approaches in R

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Laurel AB

AIR Authors: Jordan Rickles, Alberto Guzman-Alvarez, and Qi Zhang

2:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.

Paper Presentation: Impacts of Work-Based Learning Programs on Student Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Laurel CD

AIR Presenters/Authors: Kelly Reese and Susan Therriault

Paper Presentation: From Foundational Skills to Community College: A Quasi-Experimental Study of Illinois Bridge Programs for Adult Learners

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Laurel CD

AIR Presenters/Authors: Neha Nanda, Amani Talwar, Roman Ruiz, Jessica Stockham, and Oshin Khachikian

4:15 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Harborside Foyer

Poster Session: Motivation and Engagement Profiles in Middle School Social Studies and Their Instructional Implications

AIR Presenters/Authors: Alida Hudson, Lauren Artzi, Patrick Steele, Hannah Keepers, and Isabelle D'Souza

Poster Session: Ready Set Succeed: Examining the Impacts and Costs of a Kindergarten Transition Program

AIR Presenters/Authors: Leanne Elliott, Rachel Feldman, Danielle Riser, Lara Iqbal, Eboni Howard, and Hans Bos

Poster Session: Teaching Tomorrow's Skills Today: Insights from the Teach Tech Kentucky Project

AIR Presenters/Authors: Laura Buckley, Rachel Garrett, and Eben Witherspoon

Poster Session: Building Trust in Educational Evidence: A Study of Reporting Bias in Impact Evaluations

AIR Presenter/Author: Joesph Taylor

Thursday, September 24

9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Paper Presentation: The Impact of Teacher Professional Learning Designed to Support Effective Use of High-Quality Instructional Materials

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Harbor D

AIR Presenters/Authors: Andrew Wayne, Sami Kitmitto, Catherine Jacques, Cheryl Graczewski, and Alice Hung

Paper Presentation: From Interviews to Evidence: Using Large Language Models Responsibly in Program Evaluation

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Laurel AB

AIR Presenters/Authors: Ruhan Circi, Burhan Ogut, Tabitha Tezil, Eben Witherspoon, and Amelia Vasquez

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Harborside Foyer

Poster Session: Building Validity for AI-Supported Formative Assessment: Evidence From Phase 1 of the ADAPT-AI Project

AIR Presenters/Authors: Bo Zhu and Margarita Olivera-Aguilar

Poster Session: The Associations Between Preparation and Pathways and the Composition, Distribution, and Stability of Special Educators

AIR Presenter/Author: Allison Gilmour and Roddy Theobald

Poster Session: Research on Using Simulation to Practice Evidence-Based Math Instruction

AIR Presenters/Authors: Erin McCopp, Melissa Yisak, Rachel Garrett, Toni Smith, and Jasmine James

Poster Session: Of 'Dear Colleague' Letters and Federal Injunctions: How Federal DEI Actions Influence Teachers' Use of Culturally Responsive Practices

AIR Presenters/Authors: Laura Brady

Poster Session: Teaching with AI: Building Evidence for Professional Learning That Supports Responsible Classroom Integration

AIR Presenters/Authors: Rebecca Bergey, Ryan Eisner, Tiffini Pruit- Britton, Dena Slanda, Fei Tan, Kelsey Woodrick, and Isaac Kaplan

Poster Session: Synthesizing Evidence on Standalone Digital Learning Programs in Math and Science to Inform K-12 Instructional Strategies

AIR Presenters/Authors: Qi Zhang and Kamal Middlebrook

3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Panel: URE Moderated Discussion -- Trusted by Whom? Rethinking Public Trust in Education Research

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Harbor E

AIR Organizer & Panel Chair: Rachel Garrett

AIR Presenters/Authors: Joseph Taylor and Rachel Garrett 

Friday, September 25

9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Panel: RM Moderated Discussion -- Supporting Early-Career Education Researchers

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Harbor B

AIR Presenter/Author: Danielle Ferguson

Paper Presentation: Propensity Score Matching in Multilevel Educational Settings: A Review and Guide for Applied Researchers

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Laurel AB

AIR Presenters/Authors: Jordan Rickles, Alberto Guzman-Alvarez and Qi Zhang

Paper Presentation: The Benefits and Costs of Educational Inclusion: Evidence from an Evaluation of the Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools Program

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Galena

AIR Presenters/Authors: Jesse Levin, Rachel Feldman, Katie Laird, and Brad Salvato

10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Keynote Panel: The Education Research Ecosystem: What Would it Take for Evidence to Matter More?

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Harborside C Ballroom

AIR Convenor & Panel Chair: Dan Goldhaber

1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Harborside Foyer

Poster Session: In-the-Pipeline: Individualized Math Instruction with The Modern Classrooms Project - Preliminary Analyses

AIR Presenters/Authors: Robert Nathenson, Xiaying Zheng, Erin McCopp, and Toni Smith

Poster Session: Using Retrospective Pretest Items in Educational Program

AIR Presenters/Authors: Diana Oh and Margarita Olivera-Aguilar

Poster Session: Designing and Evaluating AI‑Assisted Qualitative Analysis Workflows for Education Impact Studies

AIR Presenters/Authors: Graham Chickering, Billie Day, and Garry Davis

2:15 p.m.

Panel: OSS Invited Moderated Discussion -- School Accountability and Turnaround in a Time of Federal Limbo

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Galena

AIR Presenter/Author: Drew Atchison and Kerstin Le Floch

5:15 p.m.

Paper Presentation: Nudged, But at What Cost? Assessing the State of Economic Evaluation in a Systematic Review of Postsecondary Nudge Interventions

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Laurel CD

AIR Presenters/Authors: Chris Brooks, Melissa Rodgers, Charleen Gust, Amanda Danks, and Megan Austin

Paper Presentation: Scaling Effective Educational Interventions

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Kent AB

AIR Presenters/Authors: Yinmei Wan

Saturday, September 26

8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Paper Presentation: Student Engagement as a Pathway Linking Teacher Support to Mathematics Achievement: A Meta-Analytic Structural Equation Modeling Review

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Laurel CD

AIR Presenters/Authors: Qi Zhang and Yibing Li

Paper Presentation: Student Perceptions of and Performance in Math: Effects of Middle School Access to Real-World Math Lessons

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Laurel CD

AIR Presenters/Authors: Jordan Rickles, Fei Tan, Santiago Nicotera, and Amelia Auchstetter

10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Paper Presentation: Evaluation Findings of the Equity Leader Accelerator Program

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Laurel AB

AIR Presenters/Authors: Martyna Citkowicz, Sarah Mae Olivar, Sarah Peko-Spicer, Jasmine James, Sonica Dhillon, and Jill Bowdon

Paper Presentation: Impacts of a Rural, Community-Based Summer Literacy Program on Early Elementary Struggling Readers' Outcomes: Evidence from a Quasi-Experimental Study

Location: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront – Kent AB

AIR Presenters/Authors: Patrick Rich, Karen Manship, Aleksandra Holod, and Alberto Guzman-Alvarez

About AIR

Established in 1946, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance both domestically and internationally in the areas of education, health, and the workforce. With headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR has offices across the U.S. and abroad. For more information, visit www.air.org.

Contact: Dana Tofig, [email protected]

SOURCE American Institutes for Research

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News provided by

Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs

Sep 18, 2026, 11:30 ET

Five more organizations earn reaccreditation

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ―The Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs has awarded full accreditation to Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán (INCMNSZ) in Mexico City.

The institute is the second organization in Mexico—and the first of the 13 National Institutes of Health of the Mexican Ministry of Health—to earn AAHRPP accreditation. INCMNSZ joins more than 600 entities worldwide in committing to AAHRPP's robust standards for research involving human participants.

AAHRPP has also awarded reaccreditation to the following:

"Every accreditation and reaccreditation affirms that, 25 years after AAHRPP's founding, AAHRPP accreditation is more valuable than ever," AAHRPP President and CEO Elyse I. Summers said. "AAHRPP accreditation is widely regarded as an essential mark of quality. As a result, in today's collaborative research enterprise, organizations increasingly look for the 'gold seal' of AAHRPP accreditation when choosing research partners."

To earn and maintain accreditation, organizations must demonstrate that they adhere to AAHRPP's high standards for research. These include incorporating extensive safeguards throughout their research operation and committing to a culture of continuous improvement. In a global, collaborative research environment, accreditation status can provide added assurance and a competitive edge.

AAHRPP has accredited research entities across the U.S. and in Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates. To learn more, visit www.aahrpp.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Michelle Feige

Executive Vice President

[email protected]

202-783-1112

SOURCE Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs

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HUNTERSVILLE, N.C., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- BioCytics, Inc., has engaged Eremid® Genomic Services to help sequence an autologous immune cell fraction that is the leading candidate of BioCytics' immune-based cancer cell therapy efforts. Eremid will perform single cell transcriptomic (scRNA-Seq) and TCR sequencing analysis of immune cells provided by BioCytics.

BioCytics is focused on developing an autologous adaptive immune cell therapy that provides a personalized treatment for solid tumors, using the patients' own immune cells that have been activated against their own cancer. Briefly, patient's rare immune precursor cells are isolated from leukapheresis products and are massively expanded and re-invigorated in culture to ensure there are sufficient biologically fit cells to be reinfused into the patient to fight the tumor. BioCytics needs to further characterize both the precursors and expanded cells prior to clinical use. Using data from an scRNA-Seq analysis will confirm the readiness of the immune cells for cancer-killing capability and provide comprehensive view of mode of actions.

Dr. Renaud Warin, BioCytics CSO, says "Transcriptomics studies are central to the understanding of changes that occur in cells, providing insights at the macro level (for gain/loss of functions) and micro level (for mechanisms of actions), as well as cross-referencing and validating results observed in vitro. With the addition of TCR sequencing, we will gain insights into both the mechanisms and dynamics of our cell therapy's expansion and re-invigoration process, while validating the stability of our process across multiple patient's samples. Additionally, these deep molecular insights may help refine prediction models for anti-cancer response based on any patient's immune make up. We are very excited to receive our first batch of results, including an initial analysis template that will be used during clinical deployment, and believe that the proximity and alignment of Eremid will help make this a reality."

Eremid's Chief Business Officer, Julian Abery, commented "Eremid is excited to be working with BioCytics on such an important and ground-breaking study that has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment. The application of transcriptomics has huge potential to improve patient outcomes, delivering on the promise of personalized medicine."

About BioCytics: BioCytics, Inc., a human applications laboratory (HAL) founded by Dr. John Powderly in 2005, is a privately held health technology company co-located in Huntersville, North Carolina with Carolina BioOncology Institute, a cancer treatment and clinical trial facility. BioCytics is developing Autologous Adaptive Immune Cell Therapy (AAICT) as an immuno-oncology platform for treating solid tumors with the patient's own immune cells. AAICT is a revolutionary point-of-care cell manufacturing process designed to generate nongenetically modified effector cell fractions for all stages of all solid tumors.

About Eremid® Genomic Services: Eremid® Genomic Services is a specialty high-complexity CLIA certified, CAP-accredited genomics contract research organization. The company provides technical expertise in all aspects of genomics, delivering high-quality science and data through customized, collaborative projects for both clinical and research clients working in human health, nutrition, and agbiotech. Eremid has invested in world-class scientific staff, and cutting-edge genomic instrumentation and automation to create a unique offering that meets the increasing demands for higher data quality, reliability, and accuracy in genomics research and testing. Contact: Julian Abery, Chief Business Officer; [email protected]; 704-706-5051; 150 N. Research Campus Drive, Kannapolis, NC 28081

SOURCE BioCytics Inc.

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Deck the halls (or envelopes) across the world with this Global Forever stamp

HUMBLE, Texas, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Postal Service has released Winter Wreath, a new Global Forever stamp that can be used to mail a 1-ounce letter to any country to which First-Class Mail International service is available. The stamp was issued today in Humble, TX, without a ceremony.

As familiar symbols of wintertime, wreaths have long been associated with the festivities of the season.

"Their shape makes them instantly recognizable around the world, and it's been an interesting design challenge to find objects and images that fit a round frame," explained Greg Breeding, an art director for USPS. "Two of the three previous Global holiday-themed stamps have also featured wreaths with a strong emphasis on the traditional red and green."

For this 2026 stamp, Breeding looked to convey a different mood by showcasing a softer color palette.

The wreath on this stamp was created in 2023 from artificial branches and craft-store materials by photographer Natalia Kostikova, who painted the decorative ornaments herself and sprayed the wreath with baking soda to simulate snow. Using colors that convey a gentle sense of wintertime peace, the wreath is a testament to the possibility of creating beauty from the humblest of materials.

The Winter Wreath Global Forever stamp is available in panes of 10. As Global Forever stamps, the stamp will always be equal in value to the current, single-piece First-Class Mail International 1‑ounce price.

News of the stamp is being shared with the hashtag #WinterWreathStamp.

Postal Products

Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through The Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic, or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon. Additional information on stamps, first-day-of-issue ceremonies and stamp-inspired products can be found at stampsforever.com.

Please Note: The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to more than 170 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is currently pursuing a transformation plan aimed at restoring long-term financial sustainability, improving service, and maintaining the organization as one of America's most valued and trusted brands.

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom. Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Threads, and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel. For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com.

Contact: Nikolaj Hagen

[email protected]

usps.com/news

SOURCE U.S. Postal Service

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"As a someone new to the Wesco team, what stands out to me from the survey is the clear connection between our people, our culture and our ability to deliver for our customers," says Anthony S. Marino, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer. "This recognition reflects the strength of our talent and the special environment our teams are building with our leaders - one that helps employees perform at their best and keep the world running."

Wesco's management team was rated positively by employee survey respondents for treating employees fairly, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation, with responses to those statements ranking at 89% or above. In addition, 97% of survey respondents indicated that Wesco is a physically safe place to work. The survey results also indicated that 91% of respondents reported they can take time off work when needed.

"Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience," says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. "By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Wesco stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees."

You can see more of Wesco's results at their Great Place To Work Company Profile page here: https://www.greatplacetowork.com/certified-company/1421401 

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.

According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work.

Explore Wesco's current job opportunities here: https://www.wesco.com/us/en/our-company/careers.html

About Wesco

Wesco International (NYSE: WCC) builds, connects, powers and protects the world. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Wesco is a FORTUNE 500® company with approximately $24 billion in annual sales in 2025 and a leading provider of business-to-business distribution, logistics services and supply chain solutions. Wesco offers a best-in-class product and services portfolio of Electrical and Electronic Solutions, Communications and Security Solutions, and Utility and Broadband Solutions. The Company employs approximately 21,000 people, partners with the industry's premier suppliers, and serves thousands of customers around the world. With millions of products, end-to-end supply chain services, and significant digital capabilities, Wesco provides innovative solutions to meet customer needs across commercial and industrial businesses, technology companies, telecommunications providers, and utilities. Wesco operates more than 700 sites, including distribution centers, fulfillment centers, and sales offices in approximately 50 countries, providing a local presence for customers and a global network to serve multi-location businesses and global corporations.

About Great Place to Work Certification™

Great Place To Work® Certification™ is the most definitive "employer-of-choice" recognition that companies aspire to achieve. It is the only recognition based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience – specifically, how consistently they experience a high-trust workplace. Great Place to Work Certification is recognized worldwide by employees and employers alike and is the global benchmark for identifying and recognizing outstanding employee experience. Every year, more than 10,000 companies across 60 countries apply to get Great Place To Work-Certified.

About Great Place To Work®

As the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work® brings 30 years of groundbreaking research and data to help every place become a great place to work for all. Their proprietary platform and For All™ Model helps companies evaluate the experience of every employee, with exemplary workplaces becoming Great Place To Work Certified™ or receiving recognition on a coveted Best Workplaces™ List.

Learn more at greatplacetowork.com and follow Great Place To Work on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Contact

Jennifer Sniderman

Vice President, Corporate Communications

717-579-6603

SOURCE Wesco International

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Salt delivery is a strategic advantage that accelerates deployment of Natura's advanced Molten Salt Reactors (MSR)

ABILENE, Texas, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Natura Resources LLC (Natura) has received FLiBE salt from the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory via the Idaho National Laboratory for use in its Molten Salt Demonstration Reactor, the MSR-1, being built at Abilene Christian University. The delivery on Friday, Sept. 18, marks a significant milestone, further connecting the nation's historic Molten Salt Reactor Experiment (MSRE) with Natura's effort to bring the technology into commercial deployment.

"Receiving this salt from the DOE is a handoff between generations of American innovation," said Jordan Robison, CEO of Natura Resources. "The MSRE showed what molten salt technology could achieve. We're carrying that legacy forward and turning it into a commercial reality that will deliver reliable energy, clean water, and medical isotopes to the world."

With the material now in hand, Natura has secured one of the most specialized inputs required for Molten Salt Reactor (MSR) operation, reducing supply-chain risk and enabling the successful deployment of the MSR-1. Natura will leverage the MSR-1 to generate data for its commercial reactors.

Natura was selected to receive the salt through a competitive DOE solicitation facilitated by Idaho National Laboratory and issued in August 2025. The FLiBE salt contains 99.99% enriched lithium-7 which minimizes Tritium generation in the salt.

The MSRE operated from 1965 to 1969, logging more than 13,000 hours demonstrating passive safety, high‑temperature performance, and fuel flexibility. The FLiBE salt was used to cool the MSRE, and its success provided a foundation for Natura's MSR design.

Natura's small modular reactors are designed to deliver clean, reliable baseload power using liquid fuel and low-pressure operating conditions. Natura's reactors are inherently safe, highly efficient, and built to serve industrial sites, communities, and to support critical infrastructure.

About Natura Resources 

Natura Resources LLC is a leading advanced small modular reactor developer committed to answering increasing domestic and global demands for reliable energy, medical isotopes, and clean water. Natura's reactors are liquid-fueled and molten salt-cooled, which enhances safety and reduces waste. With the first construction permit for a liquid-fueled reactor from the NRC, Natura has established itself as a leading force in the advanced nuclear industry, fueled by a commitment to support America's energy future. The company is privately owned and has secured more than $120 million in private funding and a commitment of $120 million from the State of Texas. For more information, www.naturaresources.com.

SOURCE Natura Resources

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SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Jacobi has been selected by Aberdeen Portfolio Solutions Limited (APSL) to enhance the discretionary fund manager's model portfolio capabilities.

Jacobi's institutional-grade Model Portfolio Management System (MPMS) will enhance and industrialize APSL's model portfolio rebalancing process, deliver advanced forward-looking analytics and complement its compliance and governance framework.

As part of their usage of Jacobi, APSL will integrate a range of proprietary models, tools and processes into their own private version of the software.

Mark Hopcroft, Head of Investment Solutions at Aberdeen Adviser, and responsible for the distribution, marketing and operations of Aberdeen MPS, says:

"Working with Jacobi represents an important step forward for our MPS proposition. This partnership enables us to further enhance the efficiency of our internal processes, supporting better outcomes for advisers and their clients. It reinforces our commitment to maintaining a robust, scalable and forward-looking MPS offering."

Tony Mackenzie Co-Founder and CEO of Jacobi, says:

"We're excited to be working with Aberdeen to take their model portfolio capabilities to the next level. Our MPMS is built to bring efficiency and institutional-grade rigor to the entire investment process - from portfolio construction through to rebalancing and oversight. This partnership is about helping Aberdeen scale with confidence, deepen insight, and continue delivering strong outcomes for advisers and their clients."

About Jacobi

Jacobi is a global investment technology provider for multi-asset investment teams. Capabilities include model portfolio design, analysis, and client engagement. Its unique "open architecture" platform allows users to tailor private deployments of the platform by integrating their own code, models, data, analytics, and applications.

Founded in 2014, Jacobi provides its technology to top-tier investors across the globe, including some of the world's leading asset and wealth managers, pension funds, asset owners, and investment consultants. Jacobi has seen strong demand from wealth managers in need of 'institutional grade' MPMS technology.

About Aberdeen Portfolio Solutions Limited

Aberdeen Portfolio Solutions Limited is the discretionary investment manager responsible for the portfolio management, distribution and operations of the Aberdeen Managed Portfolio Service solutions.

Launched in 2011, Aberdeen MPS's offering has evolved to cater for a wider range of adviser and client needs. This includes the introduction of the Index, Sustainable and Sustainable Index ranges, as well as a standalone Money Market MPS and a tailored MPS proposition.

As at 31 March 2026, APSL is responsible for £3.4bn assets under management across all six MPS solutions.

Aberdeen Portfolio Solutions Limited is part of the Aberdeen Group, comprised of Aberdeen Group plc and its subsidiaries.

About Aberdeen Group plc

Aberdeen is a leading wealth and investments group, working to help millions of customers and clients turn their financial goals into reality. As at 31 December 2025, Aberdeen managed and administered £556bn of client and customer assets across its three core businesses - interactive investor, Adviser and Investments.

SOURCE Jacobi Inc

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ATEEZ, Billboard 200 #1 Group, Transforms into Special 'Rockstars'

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital IP entertainment company IPX, the company behind the global character brand LINE FRIENDS, successfully launched its third collection for MIGHTEEZ, a character IP created in collaboration with global K-Pop sensation ATEEZ, titled the 'MIGHTEEZ Rock The Stage POP-UP' exclusively at LINE FRIENDS SQUARE US Online.

MIGHTEEZ are the superpowered fairies who accompany ATEEZ on their journey. In this third collaboration, MIGHTEEZ character IP reinterprets the unique personalities and vibes of ATEEZ members through IPX's creative approach. In this new universe, MIGHTEEZ are gearing up for their rockstar debut, while ATEEZ, who recently hit #1 on the US Billboard 200 with their 14th EP, transform into shining rockstars on stage through the 'Rock The Stage' theme. ATEEZ members directly participated in an exclusive photoshoot tailored to the 'Rock The Stage' concept, creating a special connection between the artists and their characters as they seamlessly share the same universe on stage.

'MIGHTEEZ Rock The Stage POP-UP' Collection Details:

- Available: Exclusively online at LINE FRIENDS SQUARE US, September 18 – September

- U.S. exclusive items:

- Halloween Plush Keychain Blind Box

- Halloween Photocard Frame Deco Kit (with matching photocard and 3D stickers)

- Rock The Stage Random Trading Photocard Set

- U.S. Exclusive Daily Drops from Day 1 to Day 3 at 9AM PDT

The 'Rock the Stage' global collection also includes Plush Keyrings, a Plush Bag, Plush Charm, Plush Tape Measure, apparel, and more, bringing ATEEZ's special 'rockstar' transformation to life.

For more information on the 'MIGHTEEZ Rock The Stage POP-UP' and to shop the collection, visit LINE FRIENDS SQUARE US official website and follow @linefriends_us on social media.

Meanwhile, the 'MIGHTEEZ Rock The Stage POP-UP' is taking place simultaneously in South Korea, China, and Japan, with plans to sequentially expand across major Asian and European countries and regions.

About IPX (F.K.A LINE FRIENDS)

IPX is the new corporate name of LINE FRIENDS, a global character brand that started from Original Characters including BROWN, CONY, SALLY created for use as stickers for the leading mobile messenger app LINE and its 200 million active users worldwide. IPX has announced a new business strategy that would accelerate the global expansion of its IP businesses by diversifying its IP portfolios targeting all ages and advancing its digital and retail business. IPX provides diverse IP experiences including BT21(BTS), ZO&FRIENDS (G-DRAGON), minini, and JOGUMAN. It has also carried out its IP-based business by partnering with global companies including Netflix (original animated series), HoYoverse (Genshin Impact) to win the hearts of over 50 million Millennials and Generation Z worldwide. IPX currently operates in 18 markets worldwide including Seoul, New York, LA, Tokyo, and Shanghai, and operates in 8 online sales platforms.

Media Contact:

Emily Fletcher

Public Haus Agency

[email protected]

SOURCE LINE FRIENDS

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The Inner Circle acknowledges Nicola Upright as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence

FORT COLLINS, Colo., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Nicola Upright is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence for her contributions to Transportation Construction.

Ms. Nicola Upright, Construction Manager at RockSol Consulting Group, Inc., has built a 41 year career in heavy civil road construction and transportation infrastructure, leading major projects and teams across Colorado.

Ms. Upright began her career with the Colorado Department of Transportation as a tester and inspector before advancing to project manager roles overseeing multimillion dollar projects. Her experience includes roadway and bridge reconstruction, project budgeting, inspections, materials testing coordination, team supervision and collaboration with contractors and agencies.

Among her career accomplishments, Ms. Upright managed a 30-mile resurfacing and realignment project involving 160,000 tons of asphalt. She also helped oversee the reconstruction of bridges following Colorado's 2013 flooding.

Beyond project management, Ms. Upright has focused on supporting others in the construction industry. She was a founding member and served as president of Women of Asphalt Colorado for five years. She also founded a Colorado Department of Transportation charity 19 years ago that has provided more than $250,000 in support to employees and their families.

A graduate of Colorado State University with a bachelor's degree in Anthropology, Ms. Upright has built her career around excellence, resilience, mentorship and inclusion. She remains committed to supporting the next generation of construction professionals and advancing opportunities for women in the industry.

Ms. Upright currently serves as Construction Manager at RockSol Consulting Group, Inc. in Loveland, Colorado, where she continues to lead transportation infrastructure projects and diverse teams throughout the region.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle

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Mayors are driving solutions on the ground, but say federal partnership is essential to solve crisis

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) released the results of a National Affordability Survey of 113 U.S. mayors, whose responses show a country struggling with an affordability crisis that city leaders are working to address on multiple fronts, including housing, food and utility costs. It is the most comprehensive survey on affordability ever produced by the Conference, and presents a stark picture of the challenge.

According to the detailed survey, 96% of mayors say their residents are very or extremely concerned about the affordability crisis. And responding mayors were nearly unanimous in identifying its cause – with 96% citing untenable housing costs. Mayors also see the affordability crisis deepening. Nearly 93% reported a rising cost of living in their cities over the past year, with 39% saying the crisis has significantly worsened.

The survey also shows that:

- While housing generates the most concern over affordability, the price of groceries, utilities, childcare, transportation (including gas) and healthcare all contribute to the rising cost of living in cities.

- Nearly 7-in-10 respondents reported higher rates of food insecurity and foodbank usage in their cities.

- Two-thirds of mayors reported that local businesses are impacted by residents having less disposable income to spend within their communities.

"Americans are feeling squeezed by the cost of housing, groceries, utilities and other everyday necessities," said U.S. Conference of Mayors President Todd Gloria, Mayor of San Diego. "Mayors see this every day in our communities, and we're doing what we can locally to lower costs like building more housing and supporting food assistance programs. But this affordability crisis is a national one and it requires strong federal partnership to fix it."

Gloria continued, "The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act becoming law this summer was an important first step toward bringing down housing costs, but there is much more work to do. America's mayors are ready to keep working in our communities and with Congress and the Administration on practical solutions that make it easier for people to afford the communities they call home."

In addition to the direct impact the affordability crisis has on residents, the survey found that it also limits the ability of cities to improve quality of life. Cities reported that rising housing costs were undercutting efforts to increase home ownership (82%) and reduce homelessness (71%). Seventy percent of cities said the affordability crisis was limiting local economic growth, and 46% of cities reported challenges attracting and retaining workers in their city.

In the survey, a city official from Vallejo (CA) highlighted how increased resident needs are straining city resources, saying "more residents are taking buses and transit because of gas prices, even if it means longer travel times, multiple transfers, or long walks. More households are behind on water bills and asking for discounts on fees. Food banks are overwhelmed and have longer lines and new families showing up. Our legal services nonprofits that provide eviction support for tenants have been overwhelmed by demand."

While permanent solutions require national support, mayors are responding where they can. The survey highlighted actions mayors are taking to address the affordability crisis, including efforts to build additional affordable housing, supporting food assistance programs and lowering utility bills. For example, Boise (ID) has "set up utility assistance funds in the city to help offset city-owned utility bills. The city is also pursuing public private-partnerships to build more deeply affordable homes in Boise. The city has built or is building 1,000 affordable housing units over the last six years, and modernizing our zoning code to get red tape out of the market and allow housing to be built more quickly to help solve the supply imbalance."

The survey was conducted from August 18 through September 4, 2026. In total, 113 cities from 39 states and Puerto Rico responded to this survey representing approximately 34.1 million Americans. The full results of the survey can be found here.

About the United States Conference of Mayors – The U.S. Conference of Mayors is the official nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more. There are more than 1,400 such cities in the country today, and each city is represented in the Conference by its chief elected official, the mayor. Follow our work on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, Substack, and TikTok.

SOURCE U.S. Conference of Mayors

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