St. Thomas is a First-Gen Forward Institution

The University of St. Thomas was recently selected to be a part of the 2021-2022 First-Gen Forward cohort through the Center for First-Generation Student Success (NASPA). This designation recognizes institutions of higher education who have demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students. As a member of the cohort, St. Thomas will receive additional professional development, community-building experiences and a first look at the Center's research and resources. St. Thomas will be one of over 200 institutions with this designation.

This designation and our institutional efforts align with the priorities of St. Thomas 2025 to broaden our reach to grow and support a more diverse student body. We recognize the richness of identities, strengths and cultural capital that our first-generation students bring to the University of St. Thomas.

St. Thomas Welcomes First Generation College Students

If you're the first in your family to go to college, or your parents did not graduate from college, you are considered a first-generation student. The University of St. Thomas is proud that many first-generation students have chosen to attend our institution. This webpage and the Proud To Be First program are designed to aid our first-generation students in their transition to college. Take advantage of these resources as well as the students, staff and faculty at St. Thomas who are here to help you.

New! This year, we offered a section of the first-year experience for first-generation college students taught by Dr. Maddox who also identified as a first-generation college student.