Selected for inclusion in the FirstGen Forward Network

FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, recently announced Centenary Universityas one of 80 new members of the FirstGen Forward Network for 2024-25. To be selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member, Centenary Universitydisplayed a demonstrated commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.

“We are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Centenary University President Dale Caldwell, Ed.D. “Over the last academic year, Centenary has strengthened its commitment to first-gen students through additional scholarship support, mentorship programs that advance first-gen success, and the introduction of a Centenary University chapter of Alpha, Alpha, Alpha Honor Society—referred to as Tri-Alpha—the national honor society for first-gen students.”

Powered by FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, the FirstGen Forward Network provides a three-phase approach to scaling holistic first-generation student success by engaging and empowering higher education institutions to transform the first-generation student experience, advance academic and co-curricular outcomes, and build more inclusive institutional structures. To date, 429 institutions of higher education, including two statewide systems, have entered the Network, representing 49 states and the District of Columbia.

“We are pleased to welcome Centenary University into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Dr. Sarah E. Whitley, vice president with FirstGen Forward. “Through the application process, it was evident that Centenary University 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.”

In this first phase of the Network, selected institutions participated in the FirstGen Forward Network Virtual Kick-off on June 6, 2024. As a Network Member, Centenary’s interested faculty and staff are afforded opportunities to engage with peer institutions also working to create environments that improve the experiences and success of first-generation students, and will participate in monthly calls, professional development, goal setting, blog development, annual reporting, and more.

After successful completion of the Network Member phase, institutions may progress to the second phase, First-gen Forward Network Leader, in which institutions receive an evidence-based and research-supported framework of actionable priorities supported through monthly workshops; diagnostic tools providing critical institutional insight; robust data sharing as part of the national Postsecondary Data Partnership; guidance of expert coaches along each step of the experience; and more. Ultimately, all Network institutions strive for national leadership as a FirsGen Forward Network Champion.

“Being named as a Network Member in the FirstGen Forward Network is an exciting opportunity for Centenary University 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,” said Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward. “We are excited to see a groundswell of activity from the Class of 2024 Network Members and know Centenary University will be a significant contributor.”

To learn more about first-generation efforts at Centenary University, click here. To learn more about FirstGen Forward, visit firstgen.naspa.org.

About FirstGen Forward
FirstGen Forward™, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, is transforming higher education to drive first-generation student success effectively and equitably across education, career, and life. We provide data, training, and expertise for a growing network of colleges and universities around the country to scale and sustain the important work of serving first-generation students. FirstGen Forward aims to acknowledge the intersectional experiences of first-generation college students. It offers an outlet for sharing cutting-edge research and current media conversations, opportunities for engagement through online learning, conferences, and events, and access to a bevy of programs and services intended to improve first-generation initiatives across higher education.

About Centenary University
Centenary University offers extraordinary learning opportunities that empower students to develop intellectually, emotionally, and interculturally—keys to career and personal success. Under the leadership of President Dale Caldwell, Ed.D., the University aspires to advance its reputation as a world class institution offering innovative programs, including the world’s first Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, to lift the future for our students and local communities.