FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-Generation Student Success, recently announced Southwestern University as one of 60 new members of the FirstGen Forward Network for 2025-2026. To be selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member, Southwestern displayed a demonstrated commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.

“I’m beyond excited to see the ongoing efforts of Southwestern University faculty and staff be recognized through the acceptance into the FirstGen Forward Network,” Southwestern Academic Success Coordinator Jennifer Frias said. “As a fellow first-generation college graduate, this work is deeply meaningful. With the guidance and accountability of the Network, I trust Southwestern will enhance and expand resources for first-generation college students. As we place a first-generation college student lens over our work, we not only improve their success but the success of their families and our communities overall.”

The FirstGen Forward Network provides a three-phase framework designed to help institutions scale holistic first-generation student success, transforming the student experience, strengthening academic and co-curricular outcomes, and building inclusive institutional structures. Since its launch, 489 institutions have joined the Network, spanning 49 states and the District of Columbia.

“We are pleased to welcome Southwestern University into the FirstGen Forward Network,” FirstGen Forward Vice President Stephanie J. Bannister said. “Through the application process, it was clear that Southwestern is not only committed to supporting first-generation students, but also prepared to invest in long-term, strategic efforts that create environments where these students can truly thrive.”

At Southwestern, first-generation student success is advanced through the sustained efforts of staff and faculty who design and lead programs, provide mentorship, and advocate for student needs. The University’s Center for Academic Success houses and supports a variety of programs, including Captain’s Academy, LatinXcel, BUCS (Building Up Classroom Success), DRAFT (Daily Revision Advances Further Thinking), EQUIP (Enhancing Quantitative Understanding and the Inquiry Process), and the student-led chapter of the national honor society for first-generation college students, Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha). Together, these programs and organizations form a coordinated framework to promote academic achievement, community-building, and sustained engagement for first-generation students.

Institutions join the FirstGen Forward Network through a comprehensive application process. The FirstGen Forward Network was impressed by Southwestern’s commitment to scaling first-generation support through structured, campus-wide initiatives that embed first-generation success into the University’s strategic priorities and planning processes. First-generation student success has been highlighted as a priority in the drafting process of the 2026-2031 Tactical Plan, reflecting the ongoing institutional focus and accountability to maintain and strengthen the structures that have proven effective in supporting first-generation students.

During the first year of membership, Network Members engage in monthly workshops, peer learning opportunities, and professional development sessions while contributing to a nationwide knowledge-sharing community. Members can progress to Network Leader status and ultimately achieve Network Champion designation by demonstrating a measurable impact and sustained commitment to the success of first-generation students.

“Being selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member is both an honor and a call to action,” FirstGen Forward Interim President and CEO Kevin Kruger said. “Southwestern joins a growing movement of institutions and professionals who are committed to advancing access, sharing best practices, and driving systemic change to ensure first-generation students succeed. We look forward to seeing Southwestern and the entire Class of 2025-2026 make a lasting impact.”

To view a complete list of the institutions or to learn more about FirstGen Forward and the Network, visit firstgenforward.org.