Thrive Center Earns UA's Recertification as First-Gen Forward Network Member

Tucson, AZ (September 18, 2025) - Thrive Center at the University of Arizona has earned a 7th recertification for the University as a First-Gen Forward Network Member institution.  Thrive Center originally earned the designation in 2019 as one of the inaugural network member institutions when NASPA launched First-Gen Forward.

The Network Member designation recognizes the University of Arizona's commitment to serving first-generation students by implementing strategies and supports that support first-gen students' ability to transition into, navigate through, excel in and graduate from the University with a degree.  Additionally, research has demonstrated that strategies that work well for first-generation college students benefit all students on campus regardless of their family's history of college attendance.

First Cats, the Thrive Center-led initiative to celebrate and support first-generation students at the University of Arizona, embraces a networked approach to supporting students, with colleges and programs throughout campus offering first-gen specific supports.  First Cats hosts regular events throughout the year, including the First Cats Mixer, First-Gen Celebration Day in November (on or near November 8 each year), professional development for staff to support first-gen students, and workshop series to support graduate school enrollment and/or workforce entry.  All first-gen students are also eligible, regardless of college/major, to receive a First Cats grad pin at graduation, with some colleges hosting specific events to recognize first-gen families.