What I Do
With FirstGenFM will share weekly inspiration through the practices, programs, and research that we can all learn from and act on. Think of it as a weekly conference session to learn by listening.
I have attended conferences where I’ve been inspired by programs and practices at high schools and colleges toward the goal of more first-gen students attaining a college degree and a professional career where they will thrive. I have implemented many ideas from colleagues, based on research and practice, and adapted it to my students and university. I always thought it was a shame to go months or even a year between these educational and inspirational events.
I’m hosting this podcast because I love working with first-gen college students (and have been doing this for more than 20 years)! These students have ambition, grit, smarts (in so many ways), and work hard for their success; they also need support in an educational system that is not designed for them, giving them the opportunity to excel.
My goal is to create a web of advocates for students, advance our knowledge together every week, and learn about the amazing work you are doing in your corner of the world.
Organizations I have worked with include
Who I Am: The Chief Connector
Hi! I’m Jen.
I know the stress and anxiety that the college admissions process creates for first-gen college-bound high school seniors and their families. I’ve seen it in my work with the College Success Foundation’s Achievers Program, and through my work with GEAR Up, AVID, and Upward Bound across the country. I’ve also seen the result of these students getting to college and the powerful contribution they make to the campus community with their strengths, experiences, and knowledge. I also know that many colleges are not student-ready for these first-gen students; they need advocates who can remind the college, and sometimes our students, of the strengths and gifts they bring to campus.
I’ve been working in higher education for more than 35 years, at public and private, religiously-affiliated and secular, research and liberal arts universities and colleges. In addition to my work in admissions, scholarships, and the retention of first-gen students, I’ve worked in orientation, residence life, student activities, and career development. My knowledge of multiple facets of college life, and my experience helping students get into college, achieve success in college, and then move into their careers, helps guide my work and my presentations to students, families, and educators.
As for my own education, in addition to all that I learn from my students and colleagues, I received a Bachelor's degree from Muhlenberg College in English and Political Science, my Master's in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from the University of Vermont, and received a certificate of advanced graduate studies in Educational Leadership from Northeastern University. I currently serve as the director of Opportunity Scholarship and Outreach Programs at Northeastern University, where I coordinate a scholarship selection process and retention programs for first-generation college students.
When I’m not working, recording my podcast with cool guests, or traveling and presenting, I enjoy reading a good mystery, discovering a new rail trail on my bike, eating the amazing food my wife, Janet, cooks up, or just hanging out with my dog, Max.
For more information, feel free to connect with me on my LinkedIn page or use the contact form.