First‑Generation Faculty and Staff Directory
Being the first in your family to go to college can come with a lot to navigate, and you don’t have to do it alone. The First‑Generation Programs and Enrichment team supports first‑generation students by offering resources, advocacy and opportunities to connect with people who understand your experience.
If you’re a first-gen faculty or staff member at CU and you’re interested in joining the First-Generation Faculty and Staff Directory, please complete this survey.
Connect with First‑Gen Faculty and Staff
One way we support first‑generation students is through the First‑Generation Faculty and Staff Directory. This directory highlights CU Boulder faculty and staff members who are either first‑generation college graduates or allies who are committed to supporting first‑gen students.
You can connect with faculty and staff for help with:
- Exploring career options
- Finding first‑gen mentors in your department
- Learning about scholarships, study abroad and other opportunities
- Navigating college as a first‑generation student
Knowing there are faculty and staff who’ve been in your shoes can make reaching out feel less intimidating and remind you that you’re not doing this alone. This resource is available to all first‑generation students, including undergraduate, graduate and professional students.
Navigating the First-Gen Faculty and Staff Directory
You may be wondering:
- What should my major be?
- How can I meet people who share my interests?
- Where can I find information about scholarships and financial aid?
We encourage you to view the directory and reach out to faculty and staff members who can help answer these questions and begin building relationships.
Tab 1 — Full directory: Your one-stop shop for all first-generation faculty, staff and allies.
Tab 2 — First-gen faculty: Lists faculty members who were the first in their families to attend college.
Tab 3 — First-gen staff: Lists staff members who were the first in their families to attend college.
Tab 4 — Faculty allies: Lists faculty members who support the first-generation community. While they may not have been the first in their families to attend college, they aim to support students at CU Boulder.
Tab 5 — Staff allies: Lists staff members who support the first-generation community. While they may not have been the first in their families to attend college, they aim to support students at CU Boulder.
Tips for Reaching Out
This directory isn’t a formal program—it’s a way for students to make connections. Think of it as a starting point for building relationships with people across campus who want to help you succeed. Here are some tips to start the conversation.
Introduce yourself
Start with your name and a little context, like your major, year in school or whether you’re part of the First‑Generation Scholars Program.
Share how you found them
Let them know you found their name through CU Boulder’s First‑Generation Faculty and Staff Directory and that you’re reaching out with a question or looking for guidance.
Be clear about what you’re hoping for.
You might ask about:
- Academic or career questions
- Their department, major or research area
- Opportunities like internships, research or campus involvement
- Their path and experiences in a field you’re exploring
The more specific you are, the easier it is for them to help.
Know what to expect
Not all faculty and staff have time for ongoing mentoring. Sometimes support might look like a few emails or a short meeting, and that’s still valuable.
Be patient
Faculty and staff have busy schedules, so give them time to respond. If your question is time sensitive, you may want to reach out directly to a campus office like Academic Advising, Career Services or the First‑Generation Program.
No matter where you are on your academic journey, remember that reaching out is a powerful step toward achieving your goals and finding your community.