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