CU Boulder launches First-Generation Student Enrichment
CU Boulder is strengthening its commitment to first-generation student success with the launch of First-Generation Student Enrichment (FGSE), a new department in the Division of Student Life.
In 2025, nearly 5,000 CU Boulder students were first-generation college students, representing 15.3% of the university’s student population. Expanding on existing initiatives to support the first-generation student experience, FGSE provides resources, support, community and engagement opportunities—building on decades of past and ongoing work by students, staff, faculty and campus partners.
“As a first-generation student myself, I know college can come with questions you may not always know to ask. Having people, resources and a community to turn to can make a meaningful difference,” said Dr. D’Andra Mull, vice chancellor for the Division of Student Life. “I want first-generation students at CU Boulder to know that they belong here, that they do not have to navigate college alone and that there is a community ready to support them.”
A home for first-generation students
FGSE is here for all first-generation students at CU Boulder, and not just students in their first year or students who receive a scholarship.
Whether you are looking for guidance, community, involvement opportunities or help finding a campus resource, FGSE can help you connect with the people and opportunities you need to make the most of your college experience.
FGSE creates opportunities for students to build community, find support and know that their experiences and contributions are valued at CU Boulder. Through FGSE, students can:
Not sure if you’re a first-generation student?
Learn what it means to be first-generation at CU Boulder.
- Find resources and support at CU Boulder.
- Connect with other first-generation students and build community.
- Attend programs and events.
- Explore academic, career and involvement opportunities.
- Stay up to date on resources, events and opportunities through the first-generation student newsletter.
A campus partner for faculty and staff
Supporting first-generation students is a shared responsibility across CU Boulder. Faculty and staff play an important role in helping students understand their options, connect with resources and build a sense of belonging.
FGSE partners with faculty and staff across campus to strengthen support for first-generation students through resources, consultation and collaboration. Faculty and staff can also get involved with the First-Generation Faculty and Staff Directory. The directory helps students find faculty and staff who are first-generation college graduates or allies. Students can use the directory to find mentors, explore opportunities and connect with people who understand and support the first-generation experience.
First-generation faculty and staff members and allies can join the directory by completing this form.
Building on decades of first-generation support
The launch of FGSE builds on longstanding efforts to support first-generation students at CU Boulder. TRiO Student Support Services, the First Generation Scholarship Program and campus partners across the university have helped generations of students find community, navigate college and succeed.
FGSE builds on that foundation by serving as a dedicated home for first-generation resources, support and engagement. The new department is part of CU Boulder’s continued commitment to first-generation student success. That work also includes recognition by the Colorado Department of Higher Education as a First Generation-Serving Institution and membership in the FirstGen Forward Network, a national network focused on advancing first-generation student success.
First-generation students are an important part of the CU Boulder community, bringing experiences, perspectives and strengths that enrich the university. FGSE will build on existing support across campus while helping students connect with resources and opportunities throughout their college experience.
“Through First-Generation Student Enrichment, we look forward to working with students, faculty, staff and campus partners to celebrate those contributions, strengthen our community and help first-generation students thrive,” said Dr. Mull.
Celebrate first-generation students this November
One of the first opportunities to connect with FGSE will be First-Generation Celebration Week in November. The annual celebration will bring the campus community together through events and activities designed to recognize and celebrate first-generation students, faculty and staff.
Visit the FGSE website for Celebration Week updates.