For the second year in a row, UCCS has been bestowed the First Generation-Serving Institution Designation from the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) for its efforts towards supporting first-generation students.
The designation accompanies membership of the FirstGen Forward Network, a program that partners with higher education, business, philanthropy and more to help first-generation students in achieving success. First-generation students are a vital part of Colorado’s higher education community because of their prevalence, impact on the state’s workforce and economy and central role in advancing equity, access and opportunity across the state.
A significant UCCS initiative for supporting first-generation students is the First2Go program, which aims to foster recognition, celebration, empowerment and a sense of belonging for first-gen students. The program offers activities and resources such as First-Gen Week in the beginning of November, which hosts celebratory, social and educational events.
Other practices to support first-gen scholars at UCCS include professional development opportunities, career networking, making connections with staff and faculty, graduate school preparation and asking students what they want and not just what they need, such as mindfulness events and activities to help reduce stress.
The First2Go program relies on contribution and support from advocates and donors. Please consider making a gift to champion first-generation students today.
About the First-Generation Serving Designation
Established through House Bill 24-1082, this designation honors institutions whose first generation resident undergraduate enrollment meets or exceeds the statewide average of 37% over three consecutive years, as well as institutions participating in the FirstGen Forward Network, a national network of colleges and universities committed to advancing the success of first-generation college students through intentional, institution-wide strategies. The First Generation-Serving Campus designation reflects CDHE’s broader goal of closing educational equity gaps and ensuring first generation students have the same opportunities to persist and complete their credentials as their peers. Learn more by visiting the First Generation-Serving Designation webpage.