Midland University was recently announced as one of 80 new additions to the FirstGen Forward Network for the 2024-25 academic year.

FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-Generation Student Success, partners with higher education, philanthropy, business, the public sector, and others to catalyze first-generation student success in education, career, and life. 

“We are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Jody Horner, President of Midland University. “Our commitment is to improve experiences and advance outcomes for first-generation students through our inclusion in the Network.”

FirstGen Forward Network provides a three-phase approach to scaling holistic first-generation student success by engaging and empowering higher education institutions to transform the first-generation student experience, advance academic and co-curricular outcomes, and build more inclusive structures. FirstGen Forward has 429 higher education institutions in the Network, representing 49 states.

“We are pleased to welcome Midland University into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Dr. Stephanie J. Bannister, Vice President with FirstGen Forward. “Through the application process, it was evident that Midland 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.”

Institutions must apply to join the FirstGen Forward Network. During the first year of active engagement, Network Member institutions commit to building a foundational understanding of first-generation student success through participating in monthly workshops, networking, and professional development opportunities, sharing knowledge and resources, and contributing to a peer community. An institution may advance to the Network Leader phase upon successfully completing the Network member requirements. The ultimate goal for Network Member institutions is to progress through the phases and achieve Network Champion status.

“Being named as a FirstGen Forward Network Member is an exciting opportunity for Midland to join a dedicated community of professionals prepared to share evidence-based practices and resources, troubleshoot challenges, generate knowledge, and continue to advance the success of first-generation students across the country,” said Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward. “We are excited to see a groundswell of activity from the Class of 2024 Network Members, and together, we will challenge the nation to ensure first-generation students thrive.”