Graduation and Retention Network

2026 News

Leadership is about creating opportunities for others to grow and succeed.

The First-Generation Center at the University of South Carolina is proud to celebrate Dr. LaNaé Budden, Director of the First-Gen Center, for receiving the 2026 Commitment to Inclusive Excellence Award presented by NASPA South Carolina on May 21, 2026.

In their corner: CIC advisor Shannon Blake-Lynch helps students find their way

We're proud to see CIC advisor Shannon R. Blake, Ed.D recognized for the care she brings to her students and her partnership with the First-Generation Center. We're also excited to celebrate her as she prepares to lead her first study abroad program with first-generation students in Ireland during spring break 2027.

University of South Carolina recognized as national leader in advancing first-generation student success

April 14, 2026 - FirstGen Forward recently welcomed the University of South Carolina into its newest class of FirstGen Forward Network Champions. Network Champion institutions are an exclusive group serving as national leaders in advancing first-generation efforts and contributing to an important knowledge base of evidence-based practices, leadership engagement, and scaling student supports.

First Generation celebrations shows love to underrepresented USC students

March 3, 2026 - From a weekly newsletter to partnerships across campus, the First-Generation Center works with offices including the Career Center, Student Success Center, Counseling and Psychology Service, Office of Enrollment Management and more to expand services for first-generation students.

5 recognized for social justice work

January 13, 2026 - Check out this article recognizing five special Gamecocks for their social justice work—including two first-gen students, Shalaia Myers and Kim Tena.

Jump to a specific year:
Recent news | 2025 | 2026

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.