Colorado Mesa University announced on Apr. 29 that it has been designated a First-Generation Serving Institution by the Colorado Department of Higher Education. Nearly half of CMU’s undergraduate students identify as first-generation, surpassing the statewide benchmark for this recognition.
The designation highlights the university’s commitment to supporting students who are the first in their families to attend college. According to CMU, 46% of its undergraduate population is first-generation, exceeding the state average of 37% and qualifying it for this distinction.
The recognition was established through House Bill 24-1082 and honors institutions whose first-generation undergraduate enrollment meets or exceeds the statewide average over three consecutive years. It also acknowledges participation in the FirstGen Forward Network, a national group focused on improving experiences for first-generation students. CMU is one of seven four-year institutions in Colorado to receive this honor.
Director of Student Support Programs Paige Cadman said, “It’s a huge deal for CMU to be recognized as a First-Generation Serving Institution because we have so many students who identify as first-gen. This designation gives us another opportunity to celebrate those students and recognize the work we do every day to ensure first-generation students have the guidance and resources they need to thrive.”
CMU supports these students through programs such as TRIO Student Support Services, Upward Bound, targeted scholarships, peer mentoring opportunities, and initiatives like the Springboard Fellowship and CMU Promise. The university also has a First-Gen Taskforce that brings together faculty, staff, and students each month to discuss initiatives and strengthen support.
Cadman said, “A lot of times, first-gen students may not know where to go with questions or who to ask for help. Our work is about helping these students navigate college and get the support they’re looking for. We want every student we serve to know they belong here and feel proud to be a fearless first-gen.”
As Colorado Mesa University continues its efforts with campuswide support programs aimed at helping first-generation college attendees succeed academically and socially, officials say that this new designation reflects both ongoing progress at CMU and broader trends in higher education.
