DENTON (UNT), Texas — The University of North Texas is adding a new center to help first-generation students navigate life on campus.

The university’s First Generation Success Center will centralize resources and programs and be the first line of support for inquiries from students whose parents did not earn a four-year college degree. In partnership with departments across campus, the center will host programs and workshops that address areas such as financial aid and financial literacy, academic support, career exploration, navigating graduate school, leadership development and community resources.

“College can be overwhelming at times, and even intimidating at first, but the First Generation Success Center is one more avenue for students to receive a helping hand and cultivate community in an unfamiliar environment,” UNT President Neal Smatresk said.

UNT was recognized for the positive ways it’s engaging first-generation low-income students by being the only Texas university to earn an “A-” on the 2020 Scholarshot.org report card measuring student outcomes, COVID-19 response, community support, academic engagement, financial management and intervention. In Fall 2020, more than 13,500 students who self-identified as first-generation were enrolled at UNT.

“With a significant portion of our student population identifying as first-generation, we feel it’s important to make sure they have what they need to succeed while at UNT and for life after graduation,” said Desiree Padron, who will be director of the new center.

The First Generation Success Center has a physical office in UNT’s University Union Room 376. For now, it will offer services and most programming virtually. To view upcoming events, visit the First Generation Success Center website.