UA recognized for commitment to first-generation college students
FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, recently announced The University of Akron (UA) as one of eighty new members of the FirstGen Forward Network for 2024-25. To be selected as a First Gen Forward Network Member, UA displayed a demonstrated commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.
Powered by FirstGen Forward, the Network provides a three-phase approach to scaling holistic first-generation student success by engaging and empowering higher education institutions to transform the first-generation student experience, advance academic and co-curricular outcomes, and build more inclusive institutional structures. To date, 429 institutions of higher education, including two statewide systems, have entered the Network, representing 49 states and the District of Columbia.
“We are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Dr. John Messina, UA’s vice president for student affairs. "This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to enhancing the experiences and success of first-generation college students. We look forward to collaborating with other institutions in the Network to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all first-generation students."
"Joining the FirstGen Forward Network is a significant milestone for the University of Akron,” said Dr. Fedearia Nicholson-Sweval, vice provost for student pathways and dean of University of Akron Honors College. “This partnership will provide our first-generation students with invaluable opportunities and resources, empowering them to thrive academically and personally."
As a Network Member, interested faculty and staff are afforded opportunities to engage with peer institutions also working to create environments that improve the experiences and success of first-generation students, and will participate in monthly calls, professional development, goal setting, blog development, annual reporting and more.
After successful completion of the Network Member phase, institutions may progress to the second phase, First-gen Forward Network Leader, in which institutions receive an evidence-based and research-supported framework of actionable priorities supported through monthly workshops; diagnostic tools providing critical institutional insight; robust data sharing as part of the national Postsecondary Data Partnership; guidance of expert coaches along each step of the experience; and more. Ultimately, all Network institutions strive for national leadership as a FirstGen Forward Network Champion.
"Being recognized as a FirstGen Forward Network Member is a testament to our dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable campus for all students,” said Dr. Sheldon Wrice, vice president for inclusion and equity. “At The University of Akron, we are committed to breaking down barriers and creating pathways to success for first-generation college students. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to ensure that every student has the support and resources they need to achieve their full potential."
“Through the application process, it was evident that UA is not only taking steps to serve first-generation students but is prepared to make a long-term commitment and employ strategies that foster an environment of success for this important population,” said Dr. Sarah E. Whitley, executive vice president with FirstGen Forward
To learn more about FirstGen Forward and the Network, visit firstgenforward.org.
Media contact: Cristine Boyd,330-687-9269, cboyd@uakron.edu