ABINGTON, Pa. — Penn State Abington has joined the FirstGen Forward Network to strengthen support for its first-generation college students and build on the Abington Experience, which aims to help students feel connected and prepare for their future careers. Almost half of Abington students are the first in their family to attend college.
“At Penn State Abington, first-generation students bring tremendous talent, determination, and fresh perspectives to our campus community. Joining FirstGen Forward helps us build on the supports already in place by using data and proven practices to keep students on track to earn a college degree and achieve their career goals,” Abington Chancellor Gary Liguori said.
“All students, including those who are first-gen, are empowered through the Abington Experience, which sets them up to thrive in the workplace and make meaningful impacts in their communities after graduation,” he continued.
Existing initiatives and programs at Abington provide the skills, confidence and experiences that contribute to increased job offers, salaries and long-term success:
- The Abington Experience focuses on leadership development, internships, research with faculty and academic travel.
- The Chaiken Center for Student Success offers tutoring and success coaching.
- Career and Professional Development provides holistic career services for students and alumni.
- Student clubs and organizations for first-generation students as well as those that explore professional pathways and contribute to leadership development.
Through FirstGen Forward, Abington faculty and staff can enhance its existing efforts by using research-driven strategies and collaborating with more than 500 other colleges and universities nationwide to boost student achievement.
"FirstGen Forward exists because we believe institutions are strongest when they learn alongside one another, sharing evidence-based practices, working through challenges together, and advancing first-generation student success at scale,” said Stephanie J. Bannister, president of FirstGen Forward. “Penn State Abington is joining a community of practitioners doing exactly that. I know Abington will be a meaningful contributor to what we build together.”
About Penn State Abington
Penn State Abington, home to nearly 3,000 students in greater Philadelphia, offers four-year degrees, the first two years of any Penn State degree, and NCAA Division III athletics. The Abington Experience launches students from campus to career through internships, leadership development, academic travel, and faculty-led research and creative work. Penn State Abington — where the city's energy meets the best of the suburbs.