Texas Wesleyan
Texas Wesleyan University has been recognized as a FirstGen Forward institution, a national designation awarded by NASPA–Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and the Suder Foundation. The honor highlights the university’s ongoing commitment to helping first-generation college students succeed.
TXWES is now one of just 429 institutions across the country invited to join the FirstGen Forward Network, which spotlights colleges and universities that use scalable strategies and best practices to improve outcomes for first-generation students. According to national data, only 24% of first-generation college students complete their degrees without targeted support.
“Within this network, Texas Wesleyan will continue to lead with best practices that support first-generation students,” said Emily Messer, president of Texas Wesleyan, in a statement. “This recognition connects us with institutions that share our mission, allowing us to collaborate, share resources and design support systems that truly change the trajectory of students’ lives. Our university’s values of connection, compassion, commitment and courage guide our investment in student success.”
At Texas Wesleyan, 56% of the student body now identifies as first-generation — a 13% increase since 2020. Across the state of Texas, first-generation enrollment has risen by 67% over the past five years, making it one of the fastest-growing demographics in higher education. U.S. News & World Report has also recognized TXWES for its efforts in advancing social mobility.
Participation in the FirstGen Forward Network is expected to bolster the university’s Rams Rising initiative, a student success program designed to support first-generation and Pell-eligible students. The program provides academic, personal, and professional resources to help students stay on track and graduate within four years.
“Our program is centered on retention by creating opportunities for success,” said David Monge, director of the Rams Rising Student Support Program. “Being part of this network only enhances our ability to meet students where they are and help them achieve their goals.”
For more information about Rams Rising, visit www.txwes.edu.