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FirstGen Forward's Landmark Report on First-Gen Support

On November 17, 2025, FirstGen Forward, which evolved from the Center for First-Generation Student Success, released its fifth and final national overview aiming to enhance support programs for first-generation students. The report, titled "Designing & Delivering Support for First-gen College Students: Practitioner & Student Perspectives," serves as a culmination of years of research focused on understanding and improving the student experience for those who are the first in their families to attend college.

The rise in initiatives to uplift and acknowledge first-generation students is evident. According to the report, an increasing number of both four-year and two-year institutions have established dedicated offices or identified individuals who act as primary advocates for first-gen students. In fact, 70% of four-year colleges now have designated offices to support these students, up from just 48% a few years ago. Similarly, 50% of two-year colleges have taken similar steps, a notable increase from 29% previously.

Dr. Melinda Mechur Karp, founder of Phase Two Advisory and an advocate for first-gen students, expressed optimism about this trend. "This data illustrates the growing recognition among institutions that support for first-generation students requires deliberate action," she noted, emphasizing that such commitment yields significant benefits.

Key Insights from the Brief

The report outlines several significant findings, including:

• - Increased Visibility: More institutions are actively designating clear support structures, which enhances visibility and ensures accountability for the programs set in place.
• - Two-Year Institutions Lagging: There remains a disparity, as two-year institutions are still less likely to have dedicated support offices compared to their four-year counterparts.
• - Ease of Access: The presence of formal offices and staff means that students can find the support they need more effectively.
• - Importance of TRIO Programs: The TRIO program continues to be a vital resource for first-gen students, presenting essential considerations for administrators and practitioners within the current sociopolitical landscape.
• - Underdeveloped Career Support: Programs aimed at fostering career development and identity formation for first-generation students appear to be lacking, indicating a critical area for growth and improvement.

Dr. Stephanie J. Bannister, President of FirstGen Forward, commented on the findings, stating, "It’s immensely encouraging to see that a growing number of educational institutions are fortifying their support mechanisms for first-generation students. Listening to student feedback is crucial as there are countless opportunities still available to enhance and customize the programs in place."

The brief concluded by emphasizing the necessity for ongoing adaptation and reinforcement of the programs targeted at first-generation students, aligning them closely with student experiences and insights to maximize their efficacy.

For those interested in learning more about FirstGen Forward or accessing the full brief, please visit firstgenforward.org. This resource serves as a valuable repository for insights and best practices tailored to support the ever-evolving needs of first-generation college students across the nation.

Conclusion

The release of this final national landscape brief by FirstGen Forward marks a significant step in understanding and addressing the needs of first-generation college students. As institutions commit to creating more supportive environments, the future looks promising for these students, ensuring that they have the resources and guidance needed to thrive in their educational pursuits.