student standing in lawn with building in the background

We are First and Proud

#FirstandProud

student standing in front of the FAU owl head

We are First and Proud

#FirstandProud

First-Generation STUDENT SUCCESS

The Office of First-Generation Student Success at FAU is designed with the student in mind. Our goal is to connect students to resources available at Florida Atlantic University that better support and assist in their development as a student beyond average expectations. We achieve this by guiding students through advising, career services, and other vital student accessibility.

The term “first-generation college student” is defined as a college student whose parents have not obtained a degree from a four-year college or university. The research shows that this group of students faces unique challenges when navigating through higher education. This includes the absence of support systems and adequate resources, financial struggles, discrimination, and the overall pressure to succeed.

The Office of First-Generation Student Success serves as a referral hub to the various services that exist to inspire and assist first-generation students at Florida Atlantic University, including academic support, advising, financial assistance and scholarships, mentorship, and the “First and Proud” registered student organization.

center for First-Generation Student Success first forward institution


Contacts


Address: Office of First-Generation Student Success | Bldg. Student Union - 204 | 777 Glades Road | Boca Raton, FL 33431
Phone: 561-297-4941 | Email: firstgenprogram@fau.edu

Connect with the First-Gen Office



Tikiy`a Henry, Ed.D

Tikiy`a Henry, Ed.D

Interim Director
First-Generation Student Success
Student Union | Room 204c
561-297-4941
thenry15@fau.edu

Allison Rodgers Zapata, M.A.

Allison Rodgers Zapata, M.A.

ACCESS Academic Coach/Advisor
First-Generation Program Advisor
Bldg. SU-80 | Room 227
561-297-4736
rodgera@fau.edu

Regina Francis

Regina Francis

Coordinator, First-Generation Students
First-Generation Student Success
Student Union, Rm. 204B
561-297-4941
rfrancis2019@fau.edu

Sahira Bacchus

Sahira Bacchus, M.S.

Coordinator, Kelly /Strul
First-Generation Student Success
Student Union, Rm. 204A
561-297-4941
sbacchus2012@fau.edu

GET CONNECTED

The Office of First-Generation Student Success is designed to ensure that all first-generation students and families have equitable access to information, services, and programs that are offered at Florida Atlantic University. Connect with us on our social media to stay up to date with our program offerings and events, or complete our connection form to speak with one of our first-generation team members! We look forward to hearing from you or seeing you at one of our upcoming events!

Ask a First-Generation Program Advisor to help you find the best fit.

ENGAGE

Aalesha Green-Chisholm

Aalesha Green-Chisholm

President, First & Proud Student Organization
First & Proud Owl Central

Genesis Hernandez

Genesis Hernandez

President, Tri-Alpha First-Generation Honors Society
Tri Alpha

PROGRAMS

The Office of First-Generation Student Success has several programs that you can participate in.
Please check them out and see if one is a right fit for you.

Programs
EVENTS


November 15th - Tri Alpha Induction Ceremony Fall 2023