Stephanie J. Bannister, Ph.D., was appointed as the president of FirstGen Forward on November 1, 2025. Previously, Dr. Bannister served as vice president for the FirstGen Forward Network and was responsible for growing the Network to nearly 500 higher education institutions and advancing institutions through their Network journey.
Throughout her career, Bannister has demonstrated her commitment to empowering, supporting students, and advocating for TRIO. She played a critical role in securing external funding to establish the Office for First-generation Students at K-State, which continues to serve first-gen students and help them achieve their academic and professional pursuits.
Before her time at K-State, Bannister was the director of residence halls at the University of Kansas, where she oversaw two residence halls and completed her graduate degree in higher education administration. Additionally, she traveled nationwide as a consultant for Alpha Gamma Delta International Fraternity. As a consultant, Bannister has worked with higher education institutions and non-profit organizations on strategic planning, reaccreditation, and philanthropic support. She also serves as an external reviewer of programs.
Bannister holds a B.A. from Fort Hays State University, an M.S. from the University of Kansas, and a Ph.D. in education from K-State. She is a graduate teaching faculty member in the College of Education at K-State and is an active member of the Manhattan, Kansas, community.
A passionate advocate and ally for first-generation students, Stephanie resides in Kansas with her husband, the Honorable Grant D. Bannister, chief judge for Kansas' 21st Judicial District. Together, they are proud parents to Sydney, William, and Grace.