University of North Texas 
The First-Generation Success Center at University of North Texas received a $15,000 grant from Capital One as part of the company’s Impact Initiative. This brings the total grant funding from Capital One to $43,000, supporting the center's ongoing initiatives to develop programs and enhance career readiness for first-generation students.
“We're truly grateful for Capital One and their generosity,” said Desiree Padron, director of UNT’s First Generation Success Center. “Thanks to their contribution, we can expand our programs to better support our students, focusing on retention efforts, education, resources, and career readiness."
Capital One's Impact Initiative represents a 5-year, $200 million investment aimed at closing gaps in equity and opportunity. Capital One’s investment in the First-Generation Success Center focuses on supporting the unique needs of UNT’s first-generation students while offering early engagement opportunities and on-campus programs like career development training.
The First-Generation Success Center plans to use the grant to broaden its programming for the First-Gen Experience and Career Week programs. The First-Gen Experience provides a one-day program designed for first-time college freshmen and first-time UNT transfer students, along with their families, as they begin their journey at UNT. Through peer connections, guest speakers, workshops, panels, and group activities, including opportunities for parent participation, the center aims to establish a strong support network, enhance campus engagement, and promote inclusivity during the crucial first year of college for participants.
The center’s First-Gen Career Week engages graduating students to help them navigate an ever-changing and innovative workforce. This program supports students by developing their career readiness and leadership skills through exposure to various training sessions, industry trends, and professional development discussions. With 450 graduates participating in career and financial programs during the 2021-2022 period, this model has proven to be a successful and valuable resource.
Additionally, the First-Generation Success Center will host a graduation ceremony for spring 2024 graduates and their families. The ceremony will include a keynote speaker that will provide an address centered on leadership and career advice, as well as the awarding of stoles and recognition of sponsorship.
Created in 2021, UNT’s First Generation Success Center has quickly grown to offer programs and resources to support first-generation students, who account for over 40% of the university’s undergraduate population. Over 4,000 students visit the center to learn more about campus resources, financial aid, financial literacy, college terminology, career preparation, and academic coaching.
About Capital One
In October 2020, Capital One announced its Impact Initiative, a $200-million, five-year commitment to address socioeconomic mobility. As part of the Impact Initiative, Capital One is partnering with organizations across the DFW community that are breaking down the structural barriers to racial equity while driving economic growth and financial well-being. In line with this initiative, Capital One plans to continue efforts to support underserved communities in and outside of the organization by providing meaningful investments, donations and opportunities for those who need them most.
To learn more about Capital One’s community investment, visit here.