ϴ has been selected as one of 60 new institutions to join the Network for 2025–26. This national initiative recognizes colleges and universities that demonstrate a deep commitment to advancing the success of first-generation college students.
“We are thrilled and deeply honored to join the FirstGen Forward Network, a prestigious cohort of institutions committed to advancing success for first-generation college students,” said Naomi Sigg, Vice President for Student Experience and Campus Belonging. “At ϴ, our Jesuit mission calls us to accompany students on their unique journeys, and our first-gen students are forging powerful new legacies in higher education. This recognition affirms our ongoing commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive, and empowering environment where all students can thrive.”
The FirstGen Forward Network, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, offers a structured, three-phase framework to help institutions scale holistic first-generation student success through transforming the student experience, strengthening academic and co-curricular outcomes, and building inclusive institutional structures. Members of the Network gain access to monthly workshops, peer learning opportunities, and national best practices, with the ability to progress to Network Leader and eventually Network Champion status through measurable impact and sustained commitment.
“We are pleased to welcome ϴ into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Dr. Stephanie J. Bannister, Vice President with FirstGen Forward. “Through the application process, it was clear that JCU is not only committed to supporting first-generation students, but also prepared to invest in long-term, strategic efforts that create environments where these students can truly thrive.”
Joining the Network through a competitive application process, John Carroll is now part of a nationwide cohort of 489 institutions across 49 states and the District of Columbia. The University officially kicked off its participation during the FirstGen Forward Virtual Kickoff on June 5, 2025.
“Being selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member is both an honor and a call to action,” said Dr. Kevin Kruger, Interim President and CEO of FirstGen Forward. “John Carroll joins a growing movement of institutions and professionals who are committed to advancing access, sharing best practices, and driving systemic change to ensure first-generation students succeed. We look forward to seeing JCU and the entire Class of 2025 make a lasting impact.”
At JCU, the first-gen initiative is co-led by Emily Sherwood, Director of Community Standards and Student Wellbeing and Title IX Coordinator, and Ayşe Selen Zarrelli, Director of the Center for Student Belonging. Together, they are advancing JCU’s First-Gen Blue Streak Program, which focuses on building supportive structures, expanding resources, and celebrating JCU's first-generation students.
To learn more about first-generation student support at ϴ and how to get involved, click here.
