The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has been recognized as a First Scholar Institution by the Center for First-generation Student Success for its demonstrated commitment to advancing the outcomes of first-generation students through improving both first-generation student success initiatives and institution-wide approaches.
UNL's participation as a First Scholar Institution follows its designation as a First Forward Institution in 2019 and Advisory Institution in 2021.
Nebraska joins 21 other institutions in this opportunity to engage in student-centered, systemic transformation through a network of resources that include:
- an evidence-based and research-supported framework of actionable priorities supported through monthly workshops
- diagnostic tools providing critical institutional insight
- robust data sharing as part of the national Postsecondary Data Partnership
- customized solutions and continuous improvement plans personalized to allow each institution to meet its first-generation student success goals.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to continue our momentum in service to first-generation students," said Amy Goodburn, Senior Associate Vice Chancellor, Dean of Undergraduate Education, and co-chair of First Generation Nebraska. "In keeping with the N2025 Strategic Plan vision of every person and every interaction matters, our First Scholars team is committed to our first-generation students' success and looking forward to learning from other institutions in this continuous improvement cohort."
Representing the university at the First Scholars Leadership Academy later this month will be Goodburn; Steven Jara, NFS Deputy Director, co-chair of First Generation Nebraska; Ryan Lahne, Assistant Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs; Moi Padilla, Director, Nebraska College Preparatory Academy; Cameron Woodard, Director, TRIO Programs; and Ryan Caldwell, Associate Director, Institutional Effectiveness and Analytics. Funding for attending the First Scholars Leadership Academy has been provided by the Strada Education Network.
The Center for First-generation Student Success is an initiative of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators and the Suder Foundation. After meeting milestones as a First Scholars Institution, UNL will be eligible to earn Champion Campus designation.
Faculty and staff interested in First-Generation Nebraska campus events and opportunities to share their first-gen story can join the FGN email list.
