Gardner-Webb University Recognized for Commitment to First-Generation Success

Introducing a new partnership with FirstGen Forward Network

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University is excited to announce its inclusion in the 2024-25 FirstGen Forward Network. Powered by FirstGen Forward, formerly known as the Center for First-generation Student Success, this initiative is committed to transforming and advancing the experiences and outcomes of first-generation students. Gardner-Webb has received recognition for empowering and fostering growth in these students.

“We are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Gardner-Webb University’s Director of Success Initiatives and First-Year Experience, Kara Alves. “This membership will allow us to expand programming, resources, and our continued support of these trailblazing students in their pursuit of an education that is for God and humanity. Our divisional mission talks about equipping and empowering students, and acceptance into this recent FirstGen Forward cohort is evidence that we are making strides toward that end.”

The FirstGen Forward Network employs a three-phase approach to promoting first-generation student success. This strategy empowers institutions to transform the first-generation experience, encourage academic and co-curricular growth, and develop more inclusive institutional structures. With Gardner-Webb entering the fold, the Network now includes 429 higher education institutions, including two statewide systems, representing 49 states and the District of Columbia.

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

In the Network Member phase, the first phase of the Network, the selected institutions participated in the FirstGen Forward Network Virtual Kick-off. As a Network Member, faculty and staff will engage with other institutions and participate in monthly calls, professional development, goal setting, blog development, annual reporting, and more.

Striving for the FirstGen Forward Network Champion title, institutions advance to the FirstGen Forward Network Leader phase. This second phase includes a framework of priorities reinforced by monthly workshops. Additionally, they gain access to diagnostic tools for institutional insight, engage with experts, share data through the national Postsecondary Data Partnership, and more.

“Being named as a Network Member in the FirstGen Forward Network is an exciting opportunity for Gardner-Webb University 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 know Gardner-Webb will be a significant contributor.”

Avery Copeland, intern for University Communications, contributed to this report. She is a senior English major from Atlanta, Ga.

About FirstGen Forward

FirstGen Forward™ is transforming higher education to effectively and inclusively support first-generation student success across education, career, and life. By providing data, training, and expertise to a growing network of colleges and universities nationwide, we work to advance their efforts to serve first-generation students. FirstGen Forward recognizes the intersectional experiences of first-generation college students and offers an outlet for engaging in media conversations, sharing research, accessing online learning, and participating in various programs to improve first-generation initiatives across higher education. Learn more here.

About Gardner-Webb

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.