What we do
The First Generation Mentor Program at the University of Rhode Island (URI) is designed to strengthen support for first-generation college students, who make up approximately one third of the university’s student population.
This initiative connects students with faculty and staff who were first-generation students themselves, creating meaningful opportunities for guidance, encouragement, and shared understanding. Through mentorship, events, and targeted programming, the program fosters a strong sense of belonging and helps students navigate the complexities of college life with confidence.
Our mission
Central to this effort is the development of a mentor network that reflects the diverse experiences of URI’s first-generation community. Participating mentors engage at varying levels, from being available for occasional outreach to building ongoing mentorship relationships and participating in campus events.
Ultimately, the program seeks to cultivate a supportive community where first-generation students feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout their college journey, while also celebrating the experiences and contributions of those who have successfully navigated similar paths.
Meet our team
Clinical Professor
College of Pharmacy
Assistant Director
Multicultural Student Services Center
Director, Academic Enhancement Center
Fannon Institute for Student Success
Instructor
Criminology and Criminal Justice
Admission Advisor
Undergraduate Admissions
Chair, Professor
Sociology and Anthropology
Associate Professor
Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Lecturer
Department of Psychology
Assistant Vice President
Community, Equity, and Diversity
Operations Staff
Undergraduate Admission
Chair, Professor
Department of Natural Resources Science
Assistant Director
Talent Development
Assistant Dean
College of Pharmacy
Admission Officer
Undergraduate Admissions
IT Endpoint Support Technician
College of Nursing
Director
Enrollment Services
Academic Advisor
Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program
Interim Director, IT Programs and Initiatives
ITS, IT Innovation
Dean
College of Engineering
Grants & Contracts Specialist
Feinstein College of Education
Admission Officer
Undergraduate Admission
Academic Advisor
Health Sciences, Fannon Institute for Student Success
Vice President, Chief Diversity Officer
Community, Equity, and Diversity
Assistant Dean, Director of Exploratory Studies
Fannon Institute for Student Success
Associate Director
Housing and Residential Life
Sr. Information Technologist
Memorial Union
Network Technician III
ITS, IT Infrastructure Services, Network
Assistant Director, Academic Programs
Office of Strategic Initiatives
Vice President
Division of Student Affairs
Assistant Dean
College of Business
Career Education Specialist
Center for Career & Experiential Education
Director
Office of Fellowships
Executive Director
URI Online
Senior Career Education Specialist
Center for Career & Experiential Education
Administrative Assistant II
Advancement of Teaching and Learning
Professor
Department of Sociology and Anthropology