Press Release
FirstGen Forward Announces Network Transformation Grant Recipients
The FirstGen Forward Transformation Grant, with support of the Gates Foundation, empowers Network Champion institutions to drive meaningful, data-informed improvements for first-generation college students.
Washington, DC (June 8, 2026) - FirstGen Forward, the center for first-generation student success, proudly announces the selection of four FirstGen Forward Network Champion institutions to receive a Transformation Grant. The award, provided by FirstGen Forward with support from the Gates Foundation, will empower these institutions to utilize the Postsecondary Data Partnership (PDP) data to drive meaningful, data-informed improvements for first-generation college students.
"These institutions are committed to the success of first-generation students because they know that when first-generation students succeed, there is a ripple effect in their families and communities," said Dr. Stephanie J. Bannister, President of FirstGen Forward.The selected Network Champion institutions demonstrated a commitment to data-informed solutions that advance the success of their first-generation students, and their selection as recipients of the FirstGen Forward Transformation Award is both a recognition of their efforts to date and a catalyst for their future success.
Congratulations to our inaugural Transformation Grant recipients:
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Kent State University Mississippi State University University of Central Florida University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh |
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The Transformation Grant provides institutions with $5,000 in unrestricted funds to engage higher education institutions in the strategic use of PDP data to:
- Foster advanced data-driven decision-making processes that enhance institutional effectiveness.
- Support launching or expanding programs, events, and initiatives specifically designed to serve first-generation college students.
- Provide comprehensive services to improve the success and retention of first-generation students throughout their academic journey.
All Award recipients will author an award brief detailing their efforts, including the establishment of learning outcomes, success metrics, and initial results of their programs, services, or initiatives. Additionally, award recipients will be encouraged to present and elevate their work at high-profile conferences supported by FirstGen Forward.
To learn more about FirstGen Forward and the Network, visit firstgenforward.org.
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About FirstGen Forward
FirstGen Forward is the center for first-generation student success– your premier source for evidence-based approaches, data-informed strategies, professional development, and research. Together, we are building community and belonging through the FirstGen Forward Network, knowledge creation and evidence-based practices, and thought leadership and advocacy, transforming higher education and the student success landscape guided by a first-gen lens.
About the Gates Foundation
Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives. In developing countries, we work with partners to create impactful solutions so that people can take charge of their futures and achieve their full potential. In the United States, we aim to ensure that everyone—especially those with the fewest resources—has access to the opportunities needed to succeed in school and life. Based in Seattle, Washington, the foundation is led by CEO Mark Suzman, under the direction of Bill Gates and our governing board.
Join the Network
We invite you to join the FirstGen Forward Network in 2026! To join the network, institutions will apply using the Readiness and Progress Audit. Please review the requirements for the first phase, Network Member, and complete the interest form below: