Robert C. McGowan

Robert “Bobby” McGowan leads FirstGen Forward's government relations and policy work. In this capacity, he manages the organization’s growing advocacy portfolio, which includes a robust digital campaign that reaches over sixty million stakeholders annually. Working closely with the CEO, he crafts FirstGen Forward’s advocacy agenda—developing and executing a comprehensive government relations strategy to enhance FirstGen Forward’s visibility and influence in the state and federal policy arenas. In collaboration with the organization’s development team, he leverages relationships to secure public funding and contributes to FirstGen Forward’s sustainability.

Previously, Bobby served as the inaugural program coordinator for The University of Scranton’s first-generation college student success initiative. He collaborated with stakeholders to build a robust network of resources designed to ease the college transition while influencing key early momentum metrics and student success outcomes.

A proud first-generation college graduate, Bobby earned his B.S. in psychology and philosophy from The University of Scranton, where he was inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu (ASN), the Jesuit honor society. Bobby remains an active member of ASN–advising its Young Alumni Advisory Council and leadership team on topics including strategic communications and fundraising.