News & Blogs

Find the latest from the Center, learn new and innovative approaches from colleagues, and engage with current mainstream media conversations on first-generation student success. In addition to the filters below, please utilize the “search” bar in the top, right corner to search by keyword, author name, or publication title.

More than Half of All U.S. College Students in the U.S. Are First-Gen

These students are distinct in other ways as well.

Diverse Issues in Higher Education / July 03, 2023

Montclair State University Joins First Scholars Network

Montclair receives national designation for commitment to ensuring first-generation college student success

Montclair State University / June 29, 2023

Motlow Joins First Scholars Network

Motlow State Community College has announced its acceptance to the nationally-recognized First Scholars Network

Tullahoma News / June 29, 2023

How Academic Advising Impacts the Question: Are You Coming Back Next Semester?

The three most important student success factors driving institutional offerings for first-generation students were retention, completion and degree attainment, and academic performance.

Faculty Focus | Higher Ed Teaching & Learning / June 28, 2023

New on the Job: Q&A With Thea Smekens at Ohio Wesleyan University

In her inaugural role as director of first-generation student success, Thea Smekens will oversee a new office for first-gen learners, promoting community and access for students.

Inside Higher Ed / June 26, 2023

LC State Invited To Join First Scholars Network For First Generation Work

Because of Lewis-Clark State College’s demonstrated commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students, the college has been selected to join the First Scholars Network.

DailyFLY / June 24, 2023

LC State Invited To Join First Scholars Network For First Gen Work

Nearly two-thirds of Lewis-Clark State’s degree and certificate seeking student enrollment are considered first-generation college students.

Daily Fly / June 24, 2023

VSU Is Recognized For Its Outstanding Support Of First Gen Students

Virginia State University was selected to participate in a network of schools committed to advancing the success of its first-generation college students.

Virginia State University News / June 23, 2023

Utah Tech First-Generation program chosen for participation in national network

Utah Tech University’s program for first-generation college students has been chosen as part of the national First Scholars Network for the 2023-24 academic year.

St George News / June 22, 2023

two people talking in the first-gen student services office

‘Monumental for our campus’

Utah Tech First-Generation program chosen for participation in national network

St. George News / June 22, 2023

Center Newsletter 6.20.23

Counting Down to #FGSS23; Pre-conference Workshops; Transforming your Institution's Approach to First-gen Student Success; Funding Your #CelebrateFirstGen Efforts; Leveraging Data to Improve Scholarship & Practice; Championing a Culture of First-gen Student Success

FirstGen Forward / June 20, 2023

UCCS joins First Scholars Network

Ensuring first-gen student success requires dedicated resources and cultural shifts.

University of Colorado Colorado Springs / June 16, 2023

Amherst College sees rise in first-gen students after ending legacy admissions

The first class that Amherst College admitted without giving preference to legacy students is expected to have the highest proportion of first-generation college students in the college’s history.

Mass Live / June 16, 2023

How White People Stole Affirmative Action—and Ensured Its Demise

If elite colleges owned up to their racism, the Supreme Court might rule differently.

Politico / June 16, 2023

UCCS joins First Scholars Network

Over 20% of UCCS undergrads identify as first-generation, a number that continues to grow.

University of Colorado Colorado Springs / June 16, 2023

The Center at Six: A Strong Foundation, a Growing Community

On the sixth anniversary of the Center for First-generation Student Success, we're filled with gratitude for our growing community of partners who help shape the Center and our work.

Sarah E. Whitley, Ph.D. / June 14, 2023

undergrad illustration (Forbes/Getty images)

56% Of All Undergraduates Are First-Generation College Students

If you’re curious about who these learners are, where they live, and which schools they attend, this article is for you.

Forbes / June 13, 2023

Montana State recognized for commitment to first-generation students

MSU joins 65 new network members being honored for their commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-gen students.

Montana State University / June 12, 2023