Our Approach
A National Network Powered by First-Gen Voices
The Kessler Scholars Program brings together a nationwide community of first-generation scholars and alumni. From the moment students begin their college journey, they become part of a powerful network that extends far beyond their campus—opening doors to mentorship, leadership, and transformative opportunities.
Connecting Scholars. Elevating Strengths. Transforming Futures.
Guided by an asset-based approach, we see first-generation identity as a strength. We honor the knowledge, resilience, and diverse perspectives Kessler Scholars bring, encouraging students and campus partners alike to build on these assets to foster belonging, growth, and success.
Through signature events, networking opportunities, and meaningful connections with alumni, students are able to learn from one another, share their experiences, and prepare for life after college. The Collaborative ensures that every Kessler Scholar has access to the resources and relationships needed to achieve their academic and professional goals.
Our Approach
Comprehensive Support
Kessler Scholars connect frequently with dedicated staff and peer mentors who provide personalized guidance, encouragement, and care—helping students navigate college with confidence.
Cohort-Based Community
From day one, Kessler Scholars join a supportive cohort that learns and grows together. Through shared classes, workshops, and events, students build belonging and a strong sense of community.
Asset-Focused Approach
We celebrate the strengths, perspectives, and experiences first-generation students bring to campus. By centering these assets, we help Kessler Scholars reach their academic, professional, and personal goals while elevating their voices across the community.
Who We Serve
First-Generation
College Students
Pell Grant
Recipients
Public High School
Graduates
1200
Kessler Scholars Hailing from
38 States and 13 Countries
600
Kessler Scholars Program Alumni
Our Program Model
The Kessler Scholars Program is built on cornerstone activities that foster community, belonging, and student success. Rooted in evidence-based practices, our model emphasizes proactive, holistic engagement—an approach shown to improve retention, academic achievement, and degree completion for first-generation students.
Dedicated
Funding
Individualized
Support
Cohort Meetings
and Workshops
Peer
Mentorship
Community
Service
Leadership & Professional
Development
College Partners
Student Leadership Board
We believe first-generation students should play an active role in shaping the program and community that supports them. Across campuses, Kessler Scholars step into leadership roles—whether by serving on Student Advisory Boards, mentoring peers, planning events, or helping guide program development. These opportunities allow students to strengthen their professional skills, build confidence, and take ownership of their college experience.
Leadership extends beyond campus, too. Each year, student representatives from every partner institution join the Collaborative Student Leadership Board, connecting Scholars nationwide to share insights, elevate student voice, and advance first-generation student success on a national stage.
Paulett Rodriguez-Trujillo
Bates College
Jorge Miranda
Brown University
MJ Surtin
Centre College
Sarah Lin
Cornell University
Ariana Sukhdeo
Johns Hopkins University
Adnaan Ali
Queens College
Lorelei Burdick
Saint Mary’s College
Gianna Fiordimondo
St. Francis College
Naheem Cadiz
Syracuse University
Josephine Okonkwor
The Ohio State University
Jannelly Hwaynate
University of California, Riverside
Susan Joseph
University of Dayton
Olivia Savord
University of Michigan
Irving Garcia-Gomez
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Laryn Boyd
University of Pittsburgh
Luis Tinajero-Areola
Washington University in St. Louis