The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is among 18 institutions being recognized as a Network Champion by FirstGen Forward for its leadership in advancing first-generation student success and for serving as a national model for other universities.
Network Champion institutions are an exclusive group of 32 institutions serving as national leaders in advancing first-generation efforts and contributing to an important knowledge base of evidence-based practices, leadership engagement and scaling student support.
“UNL's land-grant mission calls us to deliver on the promise of providing social and economic mobility through postsecondary degree completion for all Nebraskans," said Amy Goodburn, senior associate vice chancellor and dean of undergraduate education. "We are extremely honored to be recognized for our dedication to first-generation student success and helping other institutions in this important work.”
We are extremely honored to be recognized for our dedication to first-generation student success and helping other institutions in this important work.
In 2025, 24% of University of Nebraska-Lincoln students were defined as first generation, meaning they come from families where neither parent nor guardian has earned a bachelor's degree. These students often face unique challenges, including financial constraints, family or work obligations, and feeling isolated and out of place on campus, which are often reflected in lower degree completion rates. The university’s first-generation students also report feeling more frustration when navigating university systems compared to peers whose families can provide college-going knowledge and mentoring.
"We are grateful for the engagement of campus partners to help collectively strengthen university systems, practices, and opportunities so that our students can successfully achieve their dreams," said Mark Button, executive vice chancellor. "By prioritizing the needs of first-generation students, we create a more inclusive and equitable campus for all of our students."
The FirstGen Forward Network, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, engages and empowers higher education institutions to transform the first-generation student experience, advance academic and co-curricular outcomes, and build more inclusive institutional structures. The university's participation with FirstGen Forward includes achieving First Forward Institution in 2019, Advisory Institution in 2021, and First Scholar Institution in 2023.
Faculty and staff interested in First-Generation Nebraska campus events and opportunities to share their first-gen story can join the FGN email list.
