First Generation Initiative
Contact
Shanelle France '11
Director of Intercultural Programs and Initiatives
france@hws.edu
ABOUT FGI
The First Generation Initiative (FGI) is an institutional initiative that strives to build a connected and supportive community of first generation students, faculty, staff and alumni. The program was started in 2006 and is currently directed by Christine de Denus, an Associate Professor of Chemistry who is first generation herself. At HWS, we define first generation students as students who are the first in their immediate families (not including siblings) to attend a four-year college or university in the United States. It is important to us that all HWS students (~20% are first generation) are welcomed, supported and encouraged to succeed to their full academic potential.
Our Team
The FGI Team is composed of dedicated faculty, staff, and students who work directly with the Initiative to provide resources, plan events, and offer support to the community of first generation students and their families as well as first generation faculty, staff and alumni at HWS.