Mercer Times

Staff and faculty from various colleges, universities, and nonprofits gathered at Princeton University for a conference aimed at supporting first-generation, low-income, veteran, and transfer students. The event took place from November 19 to 22 and marked the return of the FGLI Consortium Conference to its original location since its inception in 2018.

The theme for this year's conference was "Persistence After Progress," highlighting the group's ongoing efforts to provide leadership, community building, and resource sharing. Khristina Gonzalez, co-organizer of the event and director of Princeton’s Emma Bloomberg Center for Access and Opportunity (EBCAO), stated: “This is an opportunity to reflect upon all that we've accomplished and simultaneously put our heads down and plan for the work that needs to get done.”

More than 160 professionals from over 60 institutions participated in the conference. Their shared goal was to support students from diverse backgrounds in achieving success both during their college years and beyond. Gonzalez emphasized creating an equitable educational environment that allows students to imagine expansive possibilities while providing necessary support structures.

Princeton's commitment to this cause has been evident through initiatives such as establishing the Emma Bloomberg Center in April 2021. This center aims to enhance college access opportunities by offering mentorships, academic enrichment programs, and fostering a sense of community among students.

Princeton President Christopher L. Eisgruber welcomed attendees by expressing gratitude for their dedication: “We want to make sure that students who work hard... are able to benefit from a first-rate education.”

The FGLI Consortium has seen significant growth since its initial meeting at Princeton six years ago. Representatives from numerous institutions attended this year’s event including Haverford College, Purdue University, Rutgers University among others.

Destiny Coleman from the University of Virginia remarked on her experience as a first-time attendee: “This conference has really lit a fire in me.” Rick Incorvati of Northwestern University noted how different resources could help tackle common challenges faced by these institutions.

The conference featured seminars on aiding FGLI students with insights shared by Rebecca Carey (Princeton) & Mesmin Destin (Northwestern). Dean Michael Gordin also delivered remarks alongside presentations covering topics like national college access programs & peer mentorship initiatives.

A dedicated workshop focused on enhancing experiences for transfer/veteran students led by Jordan Reed & Queenie Reda along with Alex Bustin highlighted available resources crucially needed within these communities according David Reeves' perspective at Rowan College Veterans Center - emphasizing genuine care towards student success throughout their academic journey

Keynote speaker Anthony Abraham Jack discussed his book "Class Dismissed" addressing socioeconomic disparities exacerbated during COVID-19 pandemic while Mary C Murphy presented research promoting growth mindset practices beneficial towards improving academics overall atmosphere

Attendees heard directly about impactful contributions made via Scholars Institute Fellows Program spearheaded under Andy Hakim’s guidance ultimately influencing wider university community positively

FGLI Consortium continues operating under leadership comprising Kourtney Cockrell Devon Moore April Ruiz alongside Gonzalez collectively driving mission forward ensuring inclusivity remains top priority across higher education landscape nationwide