TBR, Southwest selected for First Scholars Network

For more information, contact Diana Fedinec, Southwest Tennessee Community College Director of Public Relations and Media at 901- 333-4247 or  dfedinec@southwest.tn.edu

The Center for First-Generation Student Success, an initiative of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and The Suder Foundation, recently welcomed the thirteen community colleges in the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) system to the First Scholars Network that includes Southwest Tennessee Community College. 

To be selected as a First Scholars Network member, colleges needed to demonstrate a commitment to improving student experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students. 

"The Center is pleased to welcome Board of Regents colleges into the First Scholars Network," said Dr. Sarah E. Whitley, vice president of the Center for First-generation Student Success. "Through the application process, it was evident that the college system 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." 

Powered by the Center for First-generation Student Success, the First Scholars Network allows institutions of higher education to advance student success through establishing communities of practice, gaining knowledge of resources, and establishing peer networks. More than 350 institutions of higher education have entered the Network, representing 49 states and the District of Columbia. 

"Being named as a Network Member of the First Scholars Network is an exciting opportunity for the Tennessee Board of Regents 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 Dr. Kevin Kruger, president and CEO of NASPA.

To learn more about the Center for First-generation Student Success, visit firstgen.naspa.org.

To see how Southwest is advancing the futures of first-generation students, click on the image below or click here.