TTUHSC Recognized for Commitment to Improving Experiences and Advancing Outcomes for First-Generation College Students

University Selected for the FirstGen Forward Network Class of 2026

• By Suzanna Cisneros
• August 18, 2026
• Education

First-generation students are applying to college at twice the rate of continuing-generation students. FirstGen Forward announced Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) is a new member of the FirstGen Forward Network Class of 2026. FirstGen Forward selected TTUHSC because the university demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.

According to FirstGen Forward, there are 8.2 million first-generation undergraduate students in the U.S. By 2031, estimates show 72% of jobs in the U.S. will require postsecondary education or training.

At TTUHSC, the university defines the first-generation classification as:

• Neither parent or guardian completed a bachelor’s degree in the U.S.
• First-Generation postbaccalaureate ⸺ if neither parent or guardian completed a postbaccalaureate degree in the U.S.
• First-Health– if neither parent or guardian completed a postbaccalaureate health sciences degree in the U.S.

“At the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, we understand that every first-generation learner’s journey is different as they navigate through the complexity of higher education settings,” Jody C. Randall, Ed.D., vice president for university strategy at TTUHSC, said. “We are committed to supporting them every step of the way as they prepare to become the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

TTUHSC supports first-generation students through programs such as First@TTUHSC, which supports the success for students within academic and professional settings through workshops and panel presentations. Topics include mental wellness, financial literacy and resources to navigate higher education. TTUHSC team members are afforded resources to better understand and support first-generation peers and students.

“There is nothing quite like seeing a new generation of institutions step into this network with purpose and passion," Stephanie J. Bannister, Ph.D., president of FirstGen Forward, said. “FirstGen Forward exists because we believe institutions are strongest when they learn alongside one another—sharing evidence-based practices, working through challenges together and advancing first-generation student success at scale.”

Selected institutions will participate in the FirstGen Forward Network Virtual Kick-off on Aug. 20. As a Network Member, TTUHSC’s interested faculty and staff are afforded opportunities to engage with peer institutions also working to create environments that improve the experiences and success of first-generation students.

TTUHSC will offer on-campus programs for first-generation students this November, expanding on its current asynchronous learning options. The events comm