UCA receives grant to empower, celebrate first-generation students in November

The University of Central Arkansas has been awarded a 2024 First-Generation College Celebration initiative grant. This grant, provided by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE)and FirstGen Forward with support from TIAA and the Strada Education Foundation, will enable UCA to further its commitment to supporting first-generation college students in our community.

"This generous gift allows our campus to provide support for our first-generation students during our First 2 Go Week in November, which will culminate in a presentation and book signing with Alejandra Campoverdi, the author of the best-selling book, "First Gen: A Memoir," said Robin Williamson, vice president of the Division of Student Affairs. "The faculty, staff, and student leaders who work with our first-generation student population are extremely grateful to have received this grant."

The First-Generation College Celebration is recognized each year on November 8, marking the anniversary of the signing of the 1965 Higher Education Act, which has helped millions of first-generation students persist to degree completion. The day highlights the experiences and achievements of first-generation students while addressing the systemic barriers they face in higher education. By receiving this grant, UCA reaffirms its dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

COE President Kimberly Jones emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, "First-generation college students bring unique perspectives and resilience to our campuses. This grant empowers institutions like UCA to continue providing the necessary resources and support for these students to thrive."

Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, echoed these sentiments, "We are thrilled to partner with UCA and other institutions across the country to advance the success of first-generation college students. We're especially grateful to TIAA and the Strada Education Foundation for their generous sponsorship of this grant, which represents an opportunity to catalyze innovative solutions and create lasting impact within our communities."

Launched by COE and FirstGen Forwardin 2017, the First-Generation College Celebration has united hundreds of college campuses across the country for an often overlooked population through numerous events, including student rallies, faculty-led panel discussions, artistic performances, and more in recognition of first-generation students, administrators, faculty, and alumni.

About the University of Central Arkansas
Founded in 1907, the University of Central Arkansas is a premier student-focused public university located in Conway, Arkansas. UCA has nearly 150 academic programs and certificates within the colleges of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences; Business; Education; Health and Behavioral Sciences; and Science and Engineering; and the Graduate School. To learn more about UCA, visituca.edu, or through social media atFacebook,X,YouTubeorInstagram.

About the Council for Opportunity in Education
The Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) is a nonprofit organization established in 1981 dedicated to expanding college opportunities for low-income, first-generation students and students with disabilities in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., the Pacific Islands, and Puerto Rico. Its membership includes more than 1,000 colleges and agencies. Through its numerous membership services, the Council works with colleges, universities, and agencies to help low-income students enter college and graduate. Nearly a million low-income students and students with disabilities receive college access and retention services each year through our member colleges and agencies.

About FirstGen Forward
FirstGen Forward™, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, partners with higher education, philanthropy, business, the public sector, and others to catalyze first-generation student success in education, career, and life.

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