AU’s commitment to first-gen students recognized by national organization

Augusta University’s commitment to first-generation college students has been recognized by the FirstGen Forward Network, an independent national organization dedicated to catalyzing first-generation student success. AU was named one of 80 new members for 2024-25. 

FirstGen Forward, 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.  

“We are pleased to welcome Augusta University into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Sarah E. Whitley, PhD, executive vice president with FirstGen Forward. “Through the application process, it was evident that Augusta University 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.” 

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

“We 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 Augusta University upholds to ensure that all students are seen and heard, especially for our first-generation students.”

The task force’s hard work not only secured this membership but also exemplifies the institution’s 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’s 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.  

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

“Students 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,” LaFavor said. “First-generation students have unique challenges; we are working hard to identify what can be done to offer more services to our students.” 

Notably, the 2024-25 academic year introduces the Augusta Promise Scholarship Program, 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.  

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

For its inaugural year, five students received the Augusta Promise Scholarship. First-year student Jimmy Khaouli, majoring in cyber operations, 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.  

“As 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,” 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 Jags4Jags Mentoring Program, 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 kinesiology, serves as a mentor assisting first-year undergraduate students transitioning into college life.  

“I 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. “To 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.” 

Bennett’s 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.  

Looking ahead, Garrett Green, EdD, associate vice president of Institutional Access, Success and Belonging, 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 Augusta University has the resources and guidance they need to thrive.” 

Augusta University 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.  

“Augusta University’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,” Clement said.