The University of New Hampshire has been recognized for its commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation students, having been named one of 80 new members of the FirstGen Forward Network.
Launched by FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, the FirstGen Forward 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 higher education institutions have joined 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,” says Dawna M. Pérez, UNH’s executive director of the Institute for Student Success, who spearheaded the application process. “Participating in the FirstGen Network provides us with access to a broad range of regional and national peer institutions with whom to learn, share resources, evidence-based practices, and to celebrate program successes. We are focused on creating a university-wide identity of UNH Trailblazers for all of our first-generation college students, coordinating and scaling programming across the university's campuses and involving our first-gen students, alumni, faculty staff and administrators in designing those efforts."
In the first phase of their work with the network, selected institutions participated in the FirstGen Forward Network Virtual Kick-off in June. As a network member, interested faculty and staff can 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.
“We are pleased to welcome the University of New Hampshire into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Sarah E. Whitley, vice president of FirstGen Forward. “Through the application process, it was evident that UNH 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.”
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; and guidance of expert coaches along each step of the experience. Ultimately, all Network institutions strive for national leadership as a FirsGen Forward Network Champion.
“Being named as a Network Member in the FirstGen Forward Network is an exciting opportunity for UNH to join a dedicated community of professionals prepared to share evidence-based practices and resources, troubleshoot challenges, generate knowledge, and continue to advance the success of first-generation students across the country,” said Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward. “We are excited to see a groundswell of activity from the Class of 2024 Network Members and know UNH will be a significant contributor.”
