First-Gen researchers earn grants from UNG

Recipients will present their initial findings at the initial First-Generation Student Research Symposium at UNG's Gainesville Campus in March 2027. The grant recipients are:

• Dr. Emily Crawford Das, assistant professor of mathematics, "Belonging in the classroom: Academic micro-communities and sense of belonging among First-Generation students at UNG."
• Dr. Michael Lanford, associate professor in the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in higher education leadership and practice program, "Investigating the impact of peer mentoring for First-Generation STEM students applying for nationally competitive awards."
• Dr. Heather Scott, University College associate dean and associate professor of higher education, "Nighthawk Next Chapter: First-Gen common reader program at UNG."
• Dr. Katherine Adams, associate professor and Ed.D. program coordinator, and co-principal investigator Dr. Kelly Long, an assistant professor in the Ed.D. program, "Understanding the impact of First-Generation student designation on academic advising practices at the University of North Georgia."

Crawford Das, an assistant professor of mathematics, is designing her project to target a small number of First-Generation students and see how they respond to additional mentoring.

"We want to give them small-group time with faculty members talking about targeted topics," Crawford Das said. "We hope that this will be really impactful and have the chance to be transformative for students. It's wonderful to be in a place that has a commitment to this population."

Scott said her project will examine the impact of students reading the book "Educated" by Tara Westover together. Westover's book shares how she grew up in a family that didn't believe in college before her brother attended college and inspired her. Westover eventually earned a Ph.D. from Cambridge University.

The goal of this common reader program is to build a sense of belonging.

"We want to have the students see themselves represented in some way," Scott said. "We want to help them reach their highest potential as they pursue their purpose."

Lanford is working alongside Ed.D. student Jennifer Schaeffer on his research project. Schaeffer works at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

"Peer mentoring can increase participation in any elite opportunity," Schaeffer said. "I really enjoy researching higher ed and learning about topics that can make a difference for all students."

Adams and Long's project delves into how designating students as First-Gen adjusts the way advisors work with them.

"This initiative is designed to improve institutional awareness and enable more intentional advising interventions. However, little is known about how such designations translate into day-to-day advising practices or influence advisor behavior," Adams said. "Findings from this study will inform UNG's ongoing efforts to enhance student success strategies and foster equity in advising."

Lanford is also grateful for UNG's support of these research projects.

"This can build momentum across the institution," Lanford said. "It can be a launchpad for similar initiatives in the future."