TSU joins FirstGen Forward, boosts support for First-Gen Students

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has been recognized for its dedication to enhancing the experiences and outcomes of first-generation college students. TSU has been selected as a new member of the FirstGen Forward Network, a national nonprofit organization formerly known as the Center for First-Generation Student Success.

FirstGen Forward selects higher education institutions, businesses, and other organizations for their network that demonstrate a commitment to improving the experiences and success of first-generation college students.

Dr. Sessi Aboh, Director of the Title III You First Project and Graduation Initiatives for First-Generation Students at TSU, said the partnership aligns with the You First Project organization’s mission and will elevate the university’s efforts.

Dr. Sessi Aboh

“When we started the You First Project, we affirmed TSUs commitment to our students’ success and upheld the institution’s dedication to using a systematic approach and leveraging best practices,” Aboh said. “We aim to advance student success and increase first-generation students’ persistence and graduation rates. Partnering with experts and a community of peer institutions will help us gain additional insights and skills.”

The You First Project is a comprehensive care network designed to support first-generation students at TSU, guiding them toward improved graduation rates and career readiness.

For the 2023-2024 academic year, TSU had 1,200 first-generation students and hosted programs featuring panel discussions and gift giveaways to celebrate these new students.

Institutions must apply to join the FirstGen Forward Network. During their first year of active engagement, Network Member institutions commit to building a foundational understanding of first-generation student success through monthly workshops, networking, professional development opportunities, and sharing resources. Successful completion of these requirements may lead to advancement to the Network Leader phase, with the ultimate goal of achieving Network Champion status.

FirstGen Forward’s three-phase approach to scaling holistic first-generation student success will benefit both TSU students and the You First Project. This approach includes engaging and empowering institutions to transform the first-generation student experience, advance academic and co-curricular outcomes, and build more inclusive institutional structures. Over 400 higher education institutions across the country are part of the FirstGen Forward Network.

Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward, expressed enthusiasm about TSU’s membership. “We are excited to see a groundswell of activity from the Class of 2024 Network Members and know that Tennessee State University will be a significant contributor,” Jones said.

“Being named a Network Member in the FirstGen Forward Network is an exciting opportunity for Tennessee State University,” Jones continued. “It allows us to join a dedicated community of professionals ready to share evidence-based practices and resources, tackle challenges, and advance the success of first-generation students nationwide.”

The You First Project: Graduation Initiatives for First-Generation Students is a Title III/FUTURE Act Grant initiative. For more information about the You First Project, visit www.tnstate.edu/youfirst or contact the TSU You First Project/Title III at 615-963-4969. To learn more about FirstGen Forward, visit https://firstgen.naspa.org.