Five years ago, UMKC launched First Gen Roo Scholars, an interactive program offering first-generation freshmen a more immersive experience as they adjust to college to ensure academic and educational success. As programming developed, the chancellor and academic support team recognized that all first-generation students could benefit from many of the tools developed. Workshops and resources on topics like self-care, navigating technology, goal setting and financial literacy, as well as social activities, are now shared with first-generation students throughout their academic career.

The program provides an inclusive, whole-person educational experience for each student, meeting their needs from financial, family, social, community and wellness perspectives.

First-generation students Elizabeth Montelongo (B.A. ’21) and Lauren Orozco (BBA ’23) are recent UMKC alumni and current UMKC graduate students who both worked in the UMKC Academic Support and Mentoring office and helped develop the programming for First Gen Roo Scholars. As first-generation Latinas, Montelongo and Orozco both emphasized the importance of finding a place where they felt accepted and represented in their college decision, and at UMKC, they found that place.

“You don’t have a visible identity that people can see as a First Gen Roo,” Orozco said. “But it is an empowering and experiential title. You can’t be first-gen without experiencing what first gen students do. It’s a special bond.”

First Gen Roos also gives students opportunities to meet fellow first-generation students who have successful careers. Alejandra Campoverdi, a former aide to President Barack Obama, was a guest speaker at the UMKC annual National First-Generation Celebration. She spoke about her experiences as a first-generation undergraduate and graduate student.

“It was good to see an accomplished first-gen student in an important role,” Montelongo said. “It gave me the assurance that what I am doing as a graduate student now is possible and can lead to important work."

In 2024, the First Gen Emergency Fund was established to provide financial assistance to currently enrolled First Gen Roo Scholars who are facing unforeseen challenges that may impact their academic journey. By addressing these obstacles, this program continues to narrow the gaps in retention, enhance overall GPAs and create a more inclusive and equitable educational environment at UMKC.