Pulaski, TN – The University of Tennessee Southern is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a grant from the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and FirstGen Forward, with generous support from TIAA and the Strada Education Foundation. This grant will enhance UT Southern’s ongoing commitment to empowering first-generation college students and celebrating their achievements during the 2024 First-Generation College Celebration on November 8.
“First-generation college students are a vital part of our university community, and this grant allows us to strengthen our support for their success,” said Dr. Linda C. Martin, Interim Chancellor at UT Southern. “We look forward to using this funding to create more opportunities for these students to thrive academically and personally.”
The First-Generation College Celebration, observed each year on November 8, commemorates the signing of the 1965 Higher Education Act, which expanded access to higher education for millions of first-generation students. This annual event brings attention to the unique challenges first-generation students face while celebrating their resilience and contributions to campus life.
Kimberly Jones, President of COE, highlighted the importance of this initiative: “First-generation college students bring unique perspectives and resilience to our campuses. This grant empowers institutions like UT Southern to continue providing the necessary resources and support for these students to thrive.”
Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward, added, “We are excited to partner with UT Southern and other institutions nationwide to advance the success of first-generation college students. Our collaboration, supported by TIAA and the Strada Education Foundation, represents a powerful opportunity to create innovative solutions and a lasting impact in our communities.”
Since its inception in 2017, the First-Generation College Celebration has united colleges across the country in recognizing and supporting first-generation students through events such as student rallies, faculty-led panel discussions, artistic performances, and more. UT Southern is proud to be part of this nationwide effort to uplift and empower this important student population.
For more information about UT Southern, visit www.utsouthern.edu.
About UT Southern
The University of Tennessee Southern is a vibrant, student-centered institution located in Pulaski, Tennessee, dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. As part of the University of Tennessee System, UT Southern is committed to fostering academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by first-generation college students, UT Southern offers a range of tailored programs and resources, including mentorship opportunities, academic support services, and leadership development initiatives, designed to empower these students to achieve their fullest potential. Our commitment to first-generation students is a reflection of our belief that higher education should be accessible and transformative for all.
About the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE)
The Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding college opportunities for low-income, first-generation students and students with disabilities across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., the Pacific Islands, and Puerto Rico. COE’s membership includes more than 1,000 colleges and agencies committed to helping students enter and succeed in higher education.
About FirstGen Forward
FirstGen Forward™, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, partners with higher education, philanthropy, business, and the public sector to promote first-generation student success in education, careers, and life.