91茄子

Introducing a new partnership with FirstGen Forward Network

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.鈥�91茄子 is excited to announce its inclusion in the 2024-25 . Powered by , formerly known as the Center for First-generation Student Success, this initiative is committed to transforming and advancing the experiences and outcomes of first-generation students. 91茄子 has received recognition for empowering and fostering growth in these students.

鈥淲e are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network,鈥� said 91茄子鈥檚 Director of Success Initiatives and First-Year Experience, Kara Alves. 鈥淭his membership will allow us to expand programming, resources, and our continued support of these trailblazing students in their pursuit of an education that is for God and humanity. Our divisional mission talks about equipping and empowering students, and acceptance into this recent FirstGen Forward cohort is evidence that we are making strides toward that end.鈥�

The FirstGen Forward Network employs a three-phase approach to promoting first-generation student success. This strategy empowers institutions to transform the first-generation experience, encourage academic and co-curricular growth, and develop more inclusive institutional structures. With 91茄子 entering the fold, the Network now includes 429 higher education institutions, including two statewide systems, representing 49 states and the District of Columbia.

鈥淲e are pleased to welcome 91茄子 into the FirstGen Forward Network,鈥� said Dr. Sarah E. Whitley, vice president with FirstGen Forward. 鈥淭hrough the application process, it was evident that 91茄子 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.鈥�

In the Network Member phase, the first phase of the Network, the selected institutions participated in the FirstGen Forward Network Virtual Kick-off. As a Network Member, faculty and staff will engage with other institutions and participate in monthly calls, professional development, goal setting, blog development, annual reporting, and more.

Striving for the FirstGen Forward Network Champion title, institutions advance to the FirstGen Forward Network Leader phase. This second phase includes a framework of priorities reinforced by monthly workshops. Additionally, they gain access to diagnostic tools for institutional insight, engage with experts, share data through the national Postsecondary Data Partnership, and more.

鈥淏eing named as a Network Member in the FirstGen Forward Network is an exciting opportunity for 91茄子 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,鈥� said Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward. 鈥淲e are excited to see a groundswell of activity from the Class of 2024 Network Members and know 91茄子 will be a significant contributor.鈥�

Avery Copeland, intern for University Communications, contributed to this report. She is a senior English major from Atlanta, Ga.

About FirstGen Forward

FirstGen Forward鈩� is transforming higher education to effectively and inclusively support first-generation student success across education, career, and life. By providing data, training, and expertise to a growing network of colleges and universities nationwide, we work to advance their efforts to serve first-generation students. FirstGen Forward recognizes the intersectional experiences of first-generation college students and offers an outlet for engaging in media conversations, sharing research, accessing online learning, and participating in various programs to improve first-generation initiatives across higher education. Learn more .

About 91茄子

91茄子 is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., 91茄子 prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at .