First-Gen Forward

In March 2021, the Newbury Center at Boston University received a First-gen Forward designation from the Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and the Suder Foundation.

The First-gen Forward designation recognizes institutions of higher education that have demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students. Selected institutions receive professional development, community-building experiences, and a first look at the Center for First-generation Student Success’ research and resources.

Thanks to this First-gen Forward designation, interested faculty and staff at BU will be afforded multiple opportunities to engage with peer institutions who are also creating environments that improve the experiences and outcomes of first-generation students. Selected institutions will send representatives to the First-gen Forward Workshop and participate in monthly phone calls, virtual professional development, goal setting, blog development, annual reporting, and more.