GENERATIONNEXT

 

Who We Are

GenerationNext is an Educational Scholarship/Christian Leadership initiative and strategic partnership  between OneCity, City Gospel Mission,  Cedarville University , and Cincinnati Christian University which equips first-generation students from low-income backgrounds for future opportunities to lead in their communities.

 

What We Do

  • We partner with Universities to finance scholarships and train students for campus and community leadership:
  • We prepare students for academic success and campus life
  • We support student success through goal-directed mentoring
  • We work with University partners to shape and support on-campus programs

The Need

Heads of low-income families have the following average educational backgrounds:

  • 35.3% had less than a high school education compared with 4.3% of higher income families
  • 17.9% had some college education, compared to 24.7% of higher income families
  • 7.6% were college graduates, compared to 36% of higher income families
  • 50% of 18 - 24 year old high school graduates with family incomes below $25,000 attend college, compared with 90% of those with family incomes above $75,000.

    [Source: Minorities in Higher Education, 2005. Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance, 2001.]

The Impact

Based on the ACT Six Model, from the Northwest Leadership Foundation:

  • 97% graduation rate (37 of 38)
  • Grade average on par with college "good standing"
  • Increase leadership, internships, and community engagement

The Results

  • Will graduate within a standard university academic cycle
  • Will demonstrate academic good standing
  • Will demonstrate Christian leadership
  • Will secure employment or will continue education upon graduation

Who Can Apply?

First-generation, low-income college students who:
  • Express clear testimony of faith in Jesus Christ
  • Achieve above-average grades (2.5-3.0) & test scores (18-22 ACT/ 850-1050 SAT)
  • Demonstrate Christian leadership potential
  • Demonstrate high financial need

Responsibilities

  • Student Candidates:
  • Complete Qualifying Application
  • Meet with GenerationNext staff
  • Submit University Application and complete FAFSA
  • University conducts Interviews and make final selection(s)
  • Training and Preparation: Scholarship recipients will attend all summer sessions
  • Campus Orientation

Training

GenerationNext training includes interactive sessions and assignments that prepare scholar recipients for success on campus. The curriculum targets: college preparation (writing, study habits, expectations), intercultural communication, race & identity, leadership, and time & money management.

Mentoring

Students are paired with adult mentors who help support on-campus academic success, healthy campus integration, and on-going life and vocational skill development.

Timeline

  • Applications Due: January 15th
  • Student Interviews: March - April
  • Student Selection: April - May
  • Training: May – August
  • Mentor Pairing: July - August