The university was selected for the 2021-22 First-gen Forward cohort and will receive professional development, community-building experiences, research and other resources.
Elon University has been selected for the 2021-22 First-gen Forward cohort by The Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and The Suder Foundation. The First-gen Forward designation recognizes institutions of higher education that have demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students. Selected institutions receive professional development, community-building experiences, and a first look at the Center’s research and resources.
First-Generation Student Support Services, the first-generation initiative at Elon University, is committed to first-generation student success. Working with first-generation students and other campus resources, this initiative creates a culture wherein the first-generation identity is supported, empowered and celebrated throughout Elon’s campus.
“First-gen Forward now recognizes and supports over 200 diverse institutions across three cohorts, all of which continue to lead the nation through their commitment to first-generation student success. We are pleased to welcome Elon University for their long-term commitment and demonstrated strategies for advancing first-generation student initiatives,” said Sarah E. Whitley, assistant vice president, The Center for First-generation Student Success.
Jean Rattigan-Rohr, vice president for access and success, said the First-gen Forward designation will complement and advance the efforts already underway at Elon.
“We, at Elon University, are committed to creating the environment, and a myriad of opportunities on our campus, that ensure the success of our first-generation college students. As such, we look forward to this partnership with The Center for First-generation Student Success,” said Jean Rattigan-Rohr, vice president for access and success.
As a First-gen Forward Institution, interested faculty and staff will be afforded multiple opportunities to engage with peer institutions who are also creating environments that improve the experiences and outcomes of first-generation students. Selected institutions will send representatives to the First-gen Forward Workshop slated for early-June and will participate in monthly phone calls, virtual professional development, goal setting, blog development, annual reporting, and more. After two successful years in the program, institutions are eligible to apply for the Advisory leadership designation.
“With the addition of the 2021-22 cohort, First-gen Forward Institutions contribute to a national movement of two- and four-year institutions dedicated to advancing the success of first-generation students; redefining student success as a movement. We commend Elon University for their leadership and look forward to witnessing continued progress throughout their participation,” offered Kevin Kruger, president and CEO of NASPA.
To learn more about first-generation efforts at Elon University, visit https://www.elon.edu/u/academics/access-and-success/firstgen/ or contact Oscar Miranda at omiranda@elon.edu. To learn more about the Center for First-generation Student Success, visit firstgen.naspa.org.
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About NASPA
NASPA—Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education is the leading association for the advancement, health, and
sustainability of the student affairs profession. Its work provides high-quality professional development, advocacy, and research for 15,000 members in all 50 states, 25 countries, and 8 U.S. territories. Visit naspa.org for more information.
About The Center for First-generation Student Success
The Center for First-generation Student Success is the premier source of evidence-based practices, professional development, and knowledge creation for the higher education community to advance the success of first-generation students. Through four strategic priority areas, the Center drives higher education innovation and advocacy for first-generation student success.