Aims Community College Recognized for Commitment to Improving Experiences for First-Generation College Students

To be selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member, Aims demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.

A first-generation college student is one whose parents or legal guardians do not have a bachelor's degree.  Since its founding, Aims has cultivated an environment that nurtures first-generation college students to navigate their higher educational journeys; 49 percent of Aims students are first-generation learners. One of the programs Aims offers is TRIO Student Support Services which guides many first-generation students to achieve maximum academic success and career readiness.

“We are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network. With roughly half our students being first-generation students, this work will reach so many of learners and strengthen our commitment to their success,” said Dr. Larry Pakowski, Vice President of Student Engagement, Inclusion & Success. 

Pakowski understands the challenges that first-generation college students face, as he is the first person in his family to hold a bachelor’s degree, let alone a doctorate. “I would tell any first-generation student to find your tribe, those people who will support your success,” he said.  “You must also believe in yourself and make use of the resources available to you.”

FirstGen Forward Program

FirstGen Forward partners with higher education, philanthropy, business, the public sector and others to catalyze first-generation student success in education, career and life. Overall goals include transforming the first-generation student experience, advancing academic and co-curricular outcomes and building more inclusive institutional structures.

“We are pleased to welcome Aims into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Dr. Sarah E. Whitley, executive vice president of FirstGen Forward. “Through the application process, it was evident that Aims 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.”

As a FirstGen Forward Network member, Aims leaders, faculty, and staff are afforded opportunities to engage with peer institutions to improve the experiences and success of first-generation students.  The program includes monthly video calls, professional development, goal setting, annual reporting, and more. 

After successful completion of the network member phase, institutions may progress to a First-gen Forward Network leader and obtain additional resources and support.  This includes diagnostic tools, robust data sharing, guidance of expert coaches and more. Ultimately, all network institutions strive for national leadership as a FirstGen Forward Network champion.

“Being named as a network member is an exciting opportunity for Aims 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 Aims will be a significant contributor.”

To date, 429 higher education institutions have entered the network, representing 49 states. To learn more about FirstGen Forward and the Network, visit firstgenforward.org.