Cardinal First—North Central College’s program for first-generation college students—was the highlight of a feature on National Public Radio (NPR).

North Central Cardinal First continues to build on its reputation for its first-generation programming and student success with its 2024 Alumni Academy. The event helped celebrate 10 years since Cardinal First was founded.

While studying business, with a major in entrepreneurship, Paige Kozial ‘24 has made the most of her college experience by getting involved in many student organizations, including serving as president of the Student Governing Association (SGA).

You might think a first-generation college student coming from Oslo, Norway to Naperville would feel like an outsider. Thankfully, for Lukas Gallo it’s been the opposite—wherever he goes at North Central, he feels welcome. Especially when he needs a good chat.

Erica Johnson is a high jumper on North Central’s track and field team. She is also a high achiever in the classroom and beyond, taking advantage of many opportunities to get involved and gain valuable experience during her time on campus.

Julie Carballo and Natalie Lebron-Marines ’24 on higher education’s focus on first-generation students

Following the Supreme Court’s June ruling, banning race-conscious admissions policies, universities nationwide are increasingly

Nanci Sarmiento '23 of North Central College won the 2022 Illinois Rising Undergraduate Star Award from NASPA, the national organization for student affairs administrators in higher education.

Nationally known, Cardinal First, featured for helping low-income students succeed

Going to college has long been seen as the path to the middle class.

Julie Carballo shares the importance of engaging of first-gen students’ families and the impact that has on their success

Julie Carballo, assistant dean for first-gen, transfer and veteran initiatives

North Central closed out the 2021 calendar year in true Cardinal fashion, making it a year for the record books from a media perspective. The College secured 448 media placements over the course of 2021, which is a 247.3% increase in media engagements from 2020.