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At Rowan University, we approach first‑generation student success as an institutional responsibility rather than an individual challenge. That philosophy guided the design of our 9th Annual First‑Generation Symposium, held Feb. 12-13, 2026, which brought together first‑generation students, faculty, staff, administrators, and community partners to reimagine what higher education can and must become.
Hosted in person at Rowan University with a virtual option to expand access, the symposium’s theme was “Trailblazers Today, Leaders Tomorrow: The First‑Gen Future.” The goal was not simply to reflect on first‑generation student success, but to examine how institutional practices, policies, and culture can intentionally cultivate belonging, leadership, and opportunity.
The symposium offered six focused presentation tracks. Innovative Pathways examined access, dual‑enrollment, community partnerships, and data‑driven equity work. Leadership by Design highlighted mentorship, career development, and civic engagement for first‑gen leaders. Mental Health, Identity, and Belonging addressed support and inclusive campus climates. Technology & Curricular Innovation showcased digital tools, online learning, and first‑gen‑centered curriculum design. Balancing Act uplifted adult learners, student parents, and others managing school alongside life responsibilities. Beyond the Bachelor’s explored graduate and professional school pathways for first‑generation students. Each track emphasized asset‑based approaches that recognize first‑generation students as contributors to campus innovation rather than recipients of remediation. Across two days, participants engaged in a keynote experience, interactive breakout sessions, and a student‑led panel.
The symposium was anchored by an opening keynote from Dr. Nicole Pulliam, a nationally recognized equity strategist and first‑generation college graduate. Participants repeatedly highlighted the impact of her message on institutional accountability and intentional design. As One attendee shared:
“Dr. Pulliam’s keynote truly set the tone for the symposium. It was empowering, inspiring, and grounded in what first‑generation students and the professionals who support them actually need.”
The collective energy and actionable insights from Dr. Pulliam reaffirmed our commitment to making equity a lived reality for first‑generation students and the entire Rowan community.
The first‑generation student panel offered a powerful reminder that lived experience is expertise. Students spoke candidly about navigating higher education, stepping into leadership spaces, and finding community. One panelist reflected:
“Being part of the first‑generation student panel was an incredible opportunity. Sharing my story, connecting with other students, and engaging with faculty made me feel seen and valued as a leader.”
Faculty, staff, and counselors also emphasized the value of connecting across roles and institutions. One participant noted:
“As a school counselor, burnout is very real. This symposium didn’t just refresh me, it reminded me why this work matters and connected me with people who are here for the same reason: supporting first‑generation students and helping them find their voices.”
Throughout the symposium, presenters highlighted that differences in outcomes experienced by first‑generation students are most often the result of systemic barriers, not individual deficiencies. Conversations focused on transparency, institutional responsiveness, and cross‑sector collaboration approaches that allow first‑generation students to thrive.
The 9th Annual First‑Generation Symposium reaffirmed Rowan University’s commitment to designing environments where first‑generation students are supported, affirmed, and empowered to lead. When institutions center first‑generation voices, they do more than improve outcomes; they help shape the future of higher education. For more information on our 9th Annual First‑Generation Symposium, visit go.rowan.edu/firstgensymposium.
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