Mizzou recognized for commitment to first-generation college students

Nov. 12, 2024

FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, recently announced the University of Missouri as one of 80 new members of the FirstGen Forward Network for 2024-25.

To be selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member, Mizzou displayed a demonstrated commitment to continually improving experiences and advancing success for students whose parents do not have bachelor's degrees.

"We are honored to be part of an elite group of institutions working toward creating better support systems for our first-generation students," said Selena Meints, founding coordinator of the Office of First-Generation Initiatives at Mizzou.

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 the University of Missouri into the FirstGen Forward Network," said Dr. Stephanie J. Bannister, vice president with FirstGen Forward. "Through the application process, it was evident that Mizzou 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."