黑料正能量

黑料正能量鈥檚 commitment to first-generation college students has been recognized by the , an independent national organization dedicated to catalyzing first-generation student success. AU was named one of 80 new members for 2024-25.聽

, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, grants membership to applicants that demonstrate an unwavering commitment to advancing the success of first-generation students.  

鈥淲e are pleased to welcome 黑料正能量 into the FirstGen Forward Network,鈥� said Sarah E. Whitley, PhD, executive vice president with FirstGen Forward. 鈥淭hrough the application process, it was evident that 黑料正能量 is not only taking steps to serve first-generation students but is prepared to make a long-term commitment and employ strategies that foster an environment of success for this important population.鈥� 

The recognition is the result of a collaborative effort within the (ESA), with many departments assisting in the process. , EdD, director of , whose office spearheads support services and resources for first-generation students, led the task force. She was joined by Joshua LaFavor, data analyst; , director of Career, Academic & Professional Engagement (CAPE); and Sherrie Jennings, data analyst.

鈥淲e have a continued dedication to first-generation students, and we recognize the unique needs of this student population,” said Clement. “This membership represents the promise that 黑料正能量 upholds to ensure that all students are seen and heard, especially for our first-generation students.鈥�

The task force鈥檚 hard work not only secured this membership but also exemplifies the institution鈥檚 dedication to building upon new and existing efforts. As a FirstGen Forward Network member, AU faculty and staff will participate in monthly calls, professional development, goal setting, blog development and annual reporting to continue first-generation resources. 

Some of AU鈥檚 proactive efforts include creating a new position within the Office of Access, Success and Belonging to develop and implement programs specifically for first-generation students, along with establishing data analysts who can provide data-driven insights.聽聽

Additionally, these students can access the that includes email signature icons and backgrounds adorned with “JagsFirst” branding. 

鈥淪tudents are our No. 1 priority, and being a part of this task force, I see an opportunity for more resources for our first-generation students,鈥� LaFavor said. 鈥淔irst-generation students have unique challenges; we are working hard to identify what can be done to offer more services to our students.鈥� 

Notably, the 2024-25 academic year introduces the , which is a start-to-finish program that provides eligible first-generation students with the tools they need to succeed, such as mentorship, tutoring and counseling. Scholars will also have the opportunity to graduate debt-free.  

鈥淭his initiative aims to identify and support first-generation and Pell-eligible students, guaranteeing their graduation debt-free while providing targeted academic and financial support,鈥� Clement said. 鈥淭his initiative not only demonstrates our leaders’ commitment to access and success but also underscores their proactive efforts to address systemic barriers to student success.鈥�   

For its inaugural year, five students received the Augusta Promise Scholarship. First-year student Jimmy Khaouli, majoring in , is thankful to be a scholar. As a first-generation student, the scholarship allowed him and his family to not worry about the potential financial stress of a four-year college degree.  

鈥淎s a first-generation college student, the Promise Scholarship is a huge help to me and my family because, without it, I would have had to take out a loan and ask my parents for some financial help,鈥� Khaouli said.  

In addition to the program’s financial assistance, the mentorship opportunities allow Khaouli to become familiar with the college experience with the help of a fellow student. Not only is this a tremendous benefit, but this relationship encourages both academic and personal growth that assists first-generation students in their journey for higher education.  

Other programs, like the pairs up two students as a mentor and mentee. This program is one such example where another first-generation student, Gracyn Bennett, a fourth-year undergraduate student majoring in , serves as a mentor assisting first-year undergraduate students transitioning into college life.  

鈥淚 have been blessed by opportunities to make connections with other first-generation college students as well as feel relieved that I was not alone in this journey,” Bennett said. 鈥淭o help other students who may feel like I once did, last semester I decided to sign up to become a mentor through Jags4Jags, helping an assigned freshman student to navigate their first year. This opportunity as a mentor not only allowed me to be of help to a mentee, but it also blessed me with a friendship.鈥澛�

Bennett鈥檚 connection with her mentee is particularly meaningful as they are from the same hometown and are pursuing the same major. The ability to develop this friendship through Jags4Jags allowed her to feel as if she belonged from the very beginning of her college journey.聽聽

Looking ahead, , EdD, associate vice president of , sees continued growth in not only the first-generation student population but in targeted programming and outreach.  

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized by the FirstGen Forward Network,” Green said. “Our commitment to first-generation students is a cornerstone of our mission. This recognition not only affirms our current efforts but also inspires us to further enhance our support systems. We look forward to expanding our programs and ensuring that every first-generation student at 黑料正能量 has the resources and guidance they need to thrive.” 

黑料正能量 has long been dedicated to supporting first-generation students, and, through The First Scholars Network, this membership will bolster new and existing efforts and provide opportunities for growth and collaboration.  

鈥満诹险�能量’s institutional leaders demonstrate a deep understanding of the evolving needs of our first-generation student population and are steadfast in their commitment to providing targeted support, resources and opportunities for success,鈥� Clement said.