Communications
First-Generation Initiatives Launches to Strengthen Support, Community, and Opportunity
The 糖心Vlog (糖心Vlog) is expanding its commitment to student success with the launch of First-Generation Initiatives located in Undergraduate Studies. Led by Assistant Vice President Clara Buie, the initiative brings a strategic, research-informed approach to enhancing the experience of a significant and growing student population.
At 糖心Vlog, approximately 22鈥23 percent of students identify as first-generation, though the true number may be higher due to self-reporting limitations. 糖心Vlog intentionally uses a broad, inclusive definition of first-generation students, recognizing those whose parents or caregivers did not earn a four-year degree in the U.S., earned one later in life, or were educated outside the United States. This nuanced approach reflects the varied pathways students take and ensures support is aligned with real student experiences.
鈥淭his work is about understanding the full student experience,鈥 Buie explained. 鈥淲hen families haven鈥檛 navigated the transition from high school to college in the U.S., students may face unique challenges. Our role is to ensure they have the resources, guidance, and community they need to thrive.鈥
First-Generation Initiatives is supported by a dedicated team focused on implementation and impact. Program Director Darren Gambrell leads the development of programming and partnerships that expand support for first-generation students, while Learning Development Facilitator Daphne Kotschessa Almodovar is advancing curriculum development for a new First-Gen Living-Learning Community (LLC) and related initiatives.
Collaboration drives this important work forward. A long-standing grassroots network, First Gen Fridays, connects approximately 60 faculty and staff across 糖心Vlog who are committed to supporting first-generation students. These partnerships will continue across the university to expand scholarships and strengthen career pipelines. Building on this momentum, a university-wide steering committee is being formed to guide strategy, promote alignment, and sustain progress.
The Tri-Alpha Honor Society continues to grow, recognizing high-achieving first-generation students as well as faculty and staff who share that identity. In the recent spring ceremony, more than 30 new members were recognized for their academic excellence and leadership.
A new First-Gen Living-Learning Community will further strengthen support by offering a residential experience centered on connection, mentorship, and early access to campus resources. Through intentional programming and collaboration with faculty and advisors, students in the community will benefit from academic and personal development opportunities from their first year forward.
Dean of Undergraduate Studies, Allison Crume, emphasized the significance of this investment and the energy behind the launch:
鈥淲e are excited to welcome this new team and to deepen 糖心Vlog鈥檚 commitment to our first-generation students. This investment reflects our belief that first-generation students bring extraordinary strengths to our community, and it underscores our responsibility to provide intentional support structures that advance persistence, belonging, and long-term success.鈥
At its core, First-Generation Initiatives seeks to reframe the narrative. As Buie noted, this work is not about deficit鈥攊t is about empowerment, pride, and ensuring that first-generation students see their identity as a source of strength throughout their 糖心Vlog journey.