Pitt received a $1 million grant to support limited-income, first-generation students

As part of its efforts to increase access and success for first-generation students, the University of Pittsburgh has been selected to participate in the Kessler Scholars Collaborative.

Pitt will receive a five-year, $1 million grant to implement the Kessler Scholars program, which includes student financial support and cohort-based services to first-generation, limited-income students throughout their four-year college experience.

The University will dedicate at least 40% of the total grant, or $400,000, to direct student aid. Staff and peer mentors will provide personalized advising and support, cohort-based activities throughout the participants’ college experience to reinforce a sense of belonging and programs designed to elevate first-generation students’ unique strengths, with a focus on ensuring they realize their academic and professional goals.

Pitt will devote the next year to adapting the model and working with a national network of leading institutions, with plans to welcome the first class of up to 20 Kessler Scholars in fall 2023.