Rockford, Ill. – Dr. Karen Walker is ready for an emotional day. At Rockford University, she’s preparing to celebrate a milestone for first-generation college students. It all began in 2021 with the launch of the “Regents First” program. This initiative was designed to help first-gen students who are the first in their families to attend college.
The program started with just eight students, and now, in 2025, its first group is about to graduate. Dr. Walker, the dean of student support programming, knows there will be tears during the graduation ceremony. But they will be tears of happiness. “We recognize all the effort that went into reaching this special day,” she explains.
The “Regents First” program provides vital support. It pairs students with mentors and offers life skills and financial coaching. Graduate Briana Florez, who studied nursing, shared her excitement: “It’s a full circle moment for me.”
Friends, family, and university staff gather to cheer on these graduates. They sit in the front rows, feeling a deep sense of belonging. Fellow graduate Jennifer Pina, who majored in elementary education, is grateful for the help she received, especially when the program covered her textbook costs during her first year. “I hadn’t thought about paying for books before,” she says.
The support they received is inspiring them to help others. Pina plans to teach her brother about FAFSA so he can follow in her footsteps. “I feel really proud to share this knowledge with my siblings,” she beams.
Provost Elizabeth Davie expressed the excitement at the ceremony, urging graduates to continue breaking barriers. “Be first again and again. Let this be just the beginning,” she encouraged.
Dr. Walker proudly shares that the program has an impressive 83% graduation rate. “We’re changing the lives of these students and their families,” she emphasizes. Florez thinks of her peers as “pilots” for the program, suggesting they are ready to soar into the future.
First-generation college students often face unique challenges, from navigating the college application process to managing finances. Studies show that mentorship programs like Regents First can significantly improve these students’ chances of success. A recent survey revealed that 76% of first-gen students feel more confident in their college journey when they have support.
Programs like this one demonstrate the power of community and education. As these graduates move forward, they not only set the stage for their success but also open doors for future generations. Their journeys inspire others to reach for their dreams.
For more on first-generation college students and support programs, visit the National First-Generation College Student Network.
Check out this related article: Binghamton University Baseball Stumbles Against Bryant in Thrilling Series Finale
Source linkRockford,University,RU,first,regents,generation,gen,grad,graduation,Illinois,education,overcome
