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Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion
What is First-Generation Initiatives?
At MSU Denver, 58.4% of undergraduates are First-Generation Students and the First-Generation Initiatives Program in the Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion (CMEI) serves as a resource hub for current First-Generation students as they navigate campus. We encourage and empower the Roadrunner community to embrace and celebrate the multiplicity of identities the First-Generation college student population holds.
Students who can gain a post-secondary education have more significant opportunities for better jobs, higher education, and significant contributions to their communities. At MSU Denver, we recognize the importance of diversity when it comes to the next generation of leaders and highly value our First-Generation students for their contributions to the student body.
Who are First-Generation college students?
As defined by the Higher Education Act of 1965, the following definition is used by the First-Generation Initiatives in describing First-Generation students:
- An individual both of whose parents or legal guardian did not earn a Bachelor’s degree; or,
- In the case of any independent who regularly resided with and received support from only one or less parent or legal guardian, an independent whose only such parent or legal guardian did not earn a Bachelor’s degree.
Mission
To raise awareness, increase retention and graduation rates of First-Generation students.
The mission will be carried out by building community, serving as advocates, providing education on the First-Generation experience, influencing university policies and practices to be more inclusive of the First-Generation identity, and developing meaningful co-curricular programs and university initiatives that support First-Generation students.
Values
First–Generation students are resilient. They have overcome many obstacles to be in and stay in college therefore, they are leaders.
First–Generation students are paving the road for younger siblings, parents, friends, and future families. A college degree is life changing and there is pride in being the first to take this step forward.
First–Generation students are not alone. There is a large community of people who identify with them and/or want to see First-Generation students succeed. They are united in their experiences.
First–Generation students have intersecting identities that shape their experience. To best support them through their college journey, collaboration with other university programs and services is essential.
First–Generation students have unique experiences and intersecting identities. University policies, practices, and programs should be created with First-Generation students in mind. The goal is to increase education, awareness, and visibility of First-Generation students.
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First-Generation Features
Quick Links
First-Generation Honor Cords
These cords are given to graduating first-generation students as they begin the road to their successful futures.
Resources
Learn about student resources here.
First Scholars Network
Learn more about First Scholars Network at MSU Denver.
Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion (CMEI)
First-Generation Initiatives is a program within the Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to swing by our office, give us a call, or email us. We would love to hear from you!
Questions? Contact CMEI
Meet Our FamilyEmail:
Campus Location:
Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB) 237
890 Auraria Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204
Phone:
303-615-0019
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 173362, Campus Box 39, Denver, CO 80217-3362
