East Tennessee State University Joins Nationwide FirstGen Initiative

East Tennessee State University (ETSU) has been selected as one of 60 institutions across the United States to join the FirstGen Forward Network for the 2025-26 academic year. This initiative aims to enhance support for first-generation college students, who often face unique challenges in their academic journeys.

The FirstGen Forward Network is designed to provide institutions with resources and guidance to better serve these students. Participation in this program reflects ETSU’s commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment that recognizes the needs of first-generation students.

Empowering First-Generation Students

First-generation college students are defined as those whose parents did not complete a four-year degree. This demographic often encounters hurdles that can impact their success in higher education, including limited access to information about college processes and financial aid. By joining the FirstGen Forward Network, ETSU aims to implement strategies that will address these issues and improve overall student outcomes.

The university’s involvement will include professional development opportunities for faculty and staff, aimed at enhancing their understanding of the specific needs of first-generation students. ETSU plans to establish a comprehensive support framework that includes mentoring programs, workshops, and tailored resources.

National Recognition and Future Goals

The announcement of ETSU’s participation in this network highlights the university’s ongoing efforts to create a supportive atmosphere for all students. Dr. Brian Noland, the university’s president, expressed pride in this recognition, stating that it reinforces the institution’s mission to provide equitable access to education.

The FirstGen Forward Network is part of a larger movement in higher education to acknowledge and address the barriers faced by first-generation students. By participating, ETSU joins a growing number of universities committed to fostering success for this vital segment of the student population.

As the 2025-26 academic year approaches, ETSU’s initiatives will serve as a model for other institutions aiming to support first-generation college students effectively. The university’s commitment to this cause not only enhances its educational offerings but also contributes to the broader goal of increasing college accessibility for all students, regardless of their backgrounds.