Press Release

FirstGen Forward welcomes 60 new institutions to national FirstGen Forward Network

New members demonstrate strong commitment to advancing first-generation student success

WASHINGTON, DC (August 5, 2025) - FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, proudly announces the selection of sixty (60) institutions of higher education to the 2025-26 class of the FirstGen Forward Network. These colleges and universities were selected based on their demonstrated commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.

“We are thrilled to welcome our newest Network Members to the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Dr. Stephanie J. Bannister, vice president of the FirstGen Forward Network. “Through the application process, it was clear that these institutions are not only committed to supporting first-generation students, but also prepared to invest in long-term, strategic efforts that create environments where these students can truly thrive.”

The FirstGen Forward Network provides a three-phase framework designed to help institutions scale holistic first-generation student success, transforming the student experience, strengthening academic and co-curricular outcomes, and building inclusive institutional structures. Since its launch, 489 institutions—including two statewide systems—have joined the Network, spanning 49 states and the District of Columbia.

Institutions join the Network through a competitive application process. During the first year, Network Members engage in monthly workshops, peer learning opportunities, and professional development sessions while contributing to a nationwide knowledge-sharing community. Members can progress to Network Leader status and ultimately achieve Network Champion designation by demonstrating a measurable impact and sustained commitment to the success of first-generation students.

“Being selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member is both an honor and a call to action,” said Dr. Kevin Kruger, interim president and CEO of FirstGen Forward. “These institutions join a growing movement of institutions and professionals who are committed to advancing access, sharing best practices, and driving systemic change to ensure first-generation students succeed. We look forward to seeing the Class of 2025 make a lasting impact.”

The 2025-26 Network Members officially began their journey during the FirstGen Forward Virtual Kickoff on June 5, 2025. A complete list of the new 2025-26 FirstGen Forward Network Members is included below (institutions listed alphabetically):

  • Adelphi University
  • Alabama A&M University
  • Alfred State College
  • Appalachian State University
  • Aurora University
  • Austin Peay State University
  • Baker College
  • Bard College
  • Bates College
  • Berkeley College
  • Berkeley College, New York
  • Brigham Young University—Idaho
  • California State University, Long Beach
  • Clayton University
  • Community College of Aurora
  • Converse University
  • Curry College
  • Des Moines Area Community College
  • East Tennessee State University
  • Fisk University
  • Gateway Technical College
  • Gustavus Adolphus College
  • Husson University
  • Idaho State University
  • John Carroll University
  • Millikin University
  • Misericordia University
  • Moberly Area Community College
  • NC State University
  • Northeastern State University
  • Oakland University
  • Oberlin College and Conservatory
  • Oglethorpe University
  • Otis College of Art and Design
  • Regis University
  • Rhode Island School of Design
  • Rice University
  • Ringling College of Art and Design
  • Saddleback College
  • South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
  • Southeastern University
  • Southwest Mississippi Community College
  • St. John Fisher University
  • St. Joseph’s University
  • The State University of New York at Fredonia
  • The State University of New York College at Geneseo
  • The State University of New York at Oneonta
  • SUNY Morrisville
  • SUNY Old Westbury
  • SUNY Polytechnic Institute
  • Texas Wesleyan University
  • University of Central Oklahoma
  • University of Illinois Springfield
  • University of South Carolina Union
  • University of the Pacific
  • Waukesha County Technical College
  • Wayland Baptist University
  • Western Oregon University
  • Wilmington College
  • University of California, Davis

To learn more about FirstGen Forward and the Network, visit firstgenforward.org.

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About FirstGen Forward

FirstGen Forward—formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success—works to accelerate the success of first-generation students in education, career, and life. Through strategic partnerships with higher education institutions, philanthropy, business, government, and individual advocates, we strive to close completion gaps and expand post-college opportunities.

Our vision is a future where every first-generation student earns a postsecondary credential, accesses career and life opportunities that reflect their talents and training, and contributes their skills and leadership to strengthen communities around the world.

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: