Universities named First Forward schools

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Clemson University, Furman University and the University of South Carolina have been named to the 2019-20 inaugural cohort of 80 institutions dedicated to first-generation student success — First Forward, a program of the Center for First-Generation Student Success, an initiative of Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and The Suder Foundation.

The First Forward designation recognizes institutions of higher education “who have demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students,” according to a news release. Selected institutions receive professional development, community-building experiences and access to center’s research and resources.

“Furman’s commitment to helping first-generation students find a college pathway begins by engaging Greenville County schools as well as schools in several rural counties around the state, where our goal is to help students find their best college fit, be it Furman or another institution,” Neil Jamerson, Furman assistant vice president for student development, said in the release.

Faculty and staff at First Forward institutions will have opportunities to engage with peer and aspirational institutions who also are creating environments that improve the experiences and outcomes of first-generation students, the release said. Selected institutions will send representatives to the First Forward Workshop in Orlando, Fla., in June and will participate in professional development, goal setting, blog development, annual reporting and more. After two successful years in the program, institutions are eligible to apply for advisory leadership designation.