Student Support Programing

Student Support Programing

The Student Support Programming (SSP) Department provides students an opportunity to develop a strong sense of belonging on campus. Our programming options equip students with transformative knowledge and experiences critical to ensure college retention and completion. We guide and support students to accomplish the goal of graduation from Rockford University.

For more information please email: StudentSupportPrograms@rockford.edu

Regents First Program

In Fall 2021 the Regents First Program was launched to recruit, support, and retain first-generation college students at Rockford University. To assist students through their four years at RU, the program pairs each student with a financial aid coach and college life skills coach who meet with them regularly throughout the academic year. Additionally, Regents First students are paired with another first-generation college student, to help guide and motivate them during their first year on campus. 

Open to incoming freshman, Regents First takes what can be a challenging experience for anyone – enrolling in a four-year university – and boosts support for students who are working to become the first in their families to earn a bachelor’s degree. 

Students who apply and are selected to participate in Regents First must commit to attending either a week-long residential summer retreat or a one-day fall retreat. Both retreat experiences are designed to familiarize partici­pants with campus resources, faculty, and staff and provide oppor­tunities to bond with other first-generation students and peer mentors.

For more information please email: RegentsFirst@rockford.edu

Regents First in the Media:

• Rockford Register Star
• National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators 
• 13 WREX 
• My Stateline 

Men of Color Mentorship Program

The Men of Color Mentorship (MCM) Program supports RU’s community of African-American and Hispanic males.  The program supports males of color to ensure successful engagement and transition into Rockford University.  Peer Mentors connect with incoming students through a variety of sponsored events and activities to promote growth, campus engagement, and dialogue crucial for present and future success. Program events include weekly study group sessions where participants gather to focus on academic success and degree completion.

For more information please email: Mcm@rockford.edu

Grant Funding

Rockford University’s Regents First program has received the following grants to support our work with first-generation college students.

$15,000 – Kjellstrom Family Foundation

$10,000 – Perks Foundation

$25,000 – Community Foundation of Northern Illinois

Catalyst Features

Learn about the very first Regents First cohort on page 1 of the Fall 2021 Catalyst magazine!