SUNY Fredonia has joined the FirstGen Forward Network for its efforts to advance success for first-generation college students.
To be designated as a FirstGen Forward member, SUNY Fredonia displayed a demonstrated commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.
The university becomes one of 60 new members joining the network in 2025-2026.
“We are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network,” said David M. White, director of Multicultural Support Services and Veterans Affairs administrator at SUNY Fredonia.
“First-generation students are at the heart of our mission, and we are committed to building pathways of access, support and opportunity that honor their resilience and amplify their success,” said Dr. Vicki T. Sapp, who is Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion officer at SUNY Fredonia.
The FirstGen Forward Network provides a three-phase framework designed to help institutions scale holistic first-generation student success, transforming the student experience, strengthening academic and co-curricular outcomes and building inclusive institutional structures. Since its launch, 489 institutions – including two statewide systems – have joined the network that spans 49 states and the District of Columbia.
“We are pleased to welcome SUNY Fredonia into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Stephanie J. Bannister, vice president with FirstGen Forward. “Through the application process, it was clear that SUNY Fredonia is not only committed to supporting first-generation students, but also prepared to invest in long-term, strategic efforts to create environments where these students can truly thrive.”
Institutions join the network through a competitive process. During the first year, network members engage in monthly workshops, peer learning opportunities and professional development sessions while contributing to a nationwide knowledge-sharing community.
Members can progress to network leader status and ultimately achieve network champion designation by demonstrating a measurable impact and sustained commitment to the success of first-generation students.
“Being selected as a FirstGen Forward Network member is both an honor and a call to action,” said Kevin Kruger, interim president and CEO of FirstGen Foward.
“SUNY Fredonia 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 SUNY Fredonia and the entire class of 2025 make a lasting impact,” Dr. Kruger added.
The 2025-2026 network members officially began their journey during the FirstGen Forward Virtual Kickoff on June 5. For more information about FirstGen Forward, visit here.
To learn more about first-generation efforts at SUNY Fredonia, contact Dr. Sapp at email Vicki.Sapp@fredonia.edu
