Berkeley College Earns National Recognition for Commitment to First-Generation Student Success
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Photo Caption: Berkeley College has been selected as one of 60 new members of the FirstGen Forward Network for 2025-2026. Selected colleges and universities have demonstrated a strong commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.
FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, recently announced Berkeley College as one of 60 new members of the FirstGen Forward Network for 2025-2026. To be selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member, Berkeley College demonstrated a strong commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.
“We are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Diane Recinos, EdD, President of Berkeley College. “By opening doors for first-generation college students, we are not only changing their lives – we are uplifting families and transforming communities. Each student’s journey lays a foundation for a brighter future.”
The Berkeley College mission includes access, equity, and student success among its core values. Data-driven initiatives pinpoint areas where students may need additional support, and a newly piloted Peer Mentor program matches new students with mentors based on multiple criteria, including first-generation status.
The FirstGen Forward Network provides a three-phase framework designed to help institutions scale holistic first-generation student success, transforming the student experience, strengthening academic and co-curricular outcomes, and building inclusive institutional structures. Since its launch, 489 institutions – including two statewide systems – have joined the Network, spanning 49 states and the District of Columbia.
“We are pleased to welcome Berkeley College into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Stephanie J. Bannister, PhD, Vice President, FirstGen Forward. “Through the application process, it was clear that Berkeley College is not only committed to supporting first-generation students, but also prepared to invest in long-term, strategic efforts that create environments where these students can truly thrive.”
Institutions join the Network through a competitive application process. During the first year, Network Members engage in monthly workshops, peer learning opportunities, and professional development sessions while contributing to a nationwide knowledge-sharing community. Members can progress to Network Leader status and ultimately achieve Network Champion designation by demonstrating a measurable impact and sustained commitment to the success of first-generation students.
“Being selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member is both an honor and a call to action,” said Kevin Kruger, PhD, Interim President and CEO, FirstGen Forward. “Berkeley College joins a growing movement of institutions and professionals who are committed to advancing access, sharing best practices, and driving systemic change to ensure first-generation students succeed. We look forward to seeing Berkeley College and the entire Class of 2025 make a lasting impact.”
The 2025-2026 Network Members officially began their journey during the FirstGen Forward Virtual Kickoff on June 5, 2025. To view a complete list of the institutions or to learn more about FirstGen Forward and the Network, visit firstgenforward.org.
About FirstGen Forward
FirstGen Forward – formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success – works to accelerate the success of first-generation students in education, career, and life. Through strategic partnerships with higher education institutions, philanthropy, business, government, and individual advocates, we strive to close completion gaps and expand post-college opportunities.
Our vision is a future where every first-generation student earns a postsecondary credential, accesses career and life opportunities that reflect their talents and training, and contributes their skills and leadership to strengthen communities around the world.
About Berkeley College
Berkeley College, founded in 1931, is a career-focused institution accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education that offers students Master’s, Bachelor’s, and Associate’s degree and Certificate programs in more than 20 career fields. The College also offers Continuing Education programs to enhance career credentials.
Berkeley College has campuses in New York City and in Newark, Woodbridge, and Woodland Park, NJ, with more than 4,000 students enrolled. In addition, Berkeley College Online® serves a global population. U.S. News & World Report has named Berkeley College among the Best Colleges for Online Bachelor’s Programs and among the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans for 12 consecutive years. Berkeley College is also ranked among the Best Regional Colleges/Universities in the North in the 2025 edition of the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges survey. The website address is https://BerkeleyCollege.edu.
The mission of Berkeley College is to empower each student to achieve lifelong success.
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