DENTON (UNT), Texas — The University of North Texas’ First-Generation Success Center has received financial support from Capital One for four consecutive years. The latest grant will help the Center strengthen support for first-generation programming and resources.

“The grant will be instrumental in enhancing the center’s key initiatives, include the First-Gen Experience and Career Week programs,” said Desiree Padron, director of UNT’s Center for Belonging & Engagement. “These programs truly have an impact. First-gen students who engage with the center not only have a 91% retention rate but also a higher GPA.”

The First-Gen Experience is a one-day orientation designed for first-time college freshmen and transfer students, along with their families. The program features peer connections, guest speakers, workshops, panels, and group activities that involve parents, creating a strong support network and fostering inclusivity during the critical first year of college.

"We're truly grateful for Capital One and their generosity," Padron said. "Thanks to their contribution, we can expand our programs to better support our students, focusing on retention efforts, education, resources and career readiness."

Edward Ruiz, a freshman electric engineering major, interned with the First-Generation Success Center and chose to attend the First-Gen Experience to stay involved.

“Starting college can be overwhelming. As a first-gen student, seeing different speakers at this event cover topics like banking, finance and finding internships made me realize how much we need this kind of support,” Ruiz said. “The First-Gen Experience gave me confidence that resources are available at UNT when I need them. The most important advice I got was that we are not alone in this. It’s reassuring to know there’s support specifically for us, and meeting other students in similar situations made me feel connected.”

Meanwhile, the First-Gen Career Week targets graduating students, equipping them to navigate a dynamic workforce. This initiative focuses on career readiness and leadership development through training sessions, exposure to industry trends, and professional development discussion.

“College can feel daunting, and for first-gen students, there are additional hurdles they have to face,” said Monica Shortino, senior director, Social Innovation at Capital One. “Our support for the University of North Texas’ programs will help students get the support needed to achieve greater confidence in their financial well-being and career readiness, as they work toward their college degrees.”

Established in 2021, First-Generation Success Center has rapidly become a vital resource for over 4,000 students, who account for more than 38% of the university’s undergraduate population. The center provides comprehensive support, including information on campus resources, financial aid, financial literacy, college terminology, career preparation, and academic coaching. Last year, staff with the center offered 689 individual student meetings and facilitated 45 programs, ranging from campuswide to small group centered around the development and support of the first-generation community resulting in 2,579 student engagements.

The First-Generation Success Center is part of the Center for Belonging & Engagement within the Division of Student Affairs.