Strengthening Student Success: Center for Student Empowerment Receives COOG Mom Grant to Support First-Generation Students

DSA News
February 14, 2025

The Division of Student Affairs (DSA) Center for Student Empowerment (CSE) has received a generous $500 grant from the COOG Mom Grant, reaffirming its commitment to fostering the success and retention of First-Generation students. This critical funding will enhance the CSE’s comprehensive programming efforts, equipping students with vital resources and guidance that contribute to their academic achievements and personal development.

The Center for Student Empowerment provides essential support services across multiple key areas, including academic advising, financial aid navigation, and mental health and well-being assistance. By taking a holistic approach to student success, the CSE ensures that First-Generation students—who often face unique challenges—receive tailored guidance and structured support to help them navigate the complexities of university life. This multifaceted approach not only bolsters their academic performance but also fosters their emotional and social growth, empowering them to thrive in a collegiate setting.

Dr. Raven Jones, director of the Center for Student Empowerment, emphasized the significance of this grant and the impact it will have on student success:

“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to receive the COOG Mom Grant and the continued support it provides for our mission at the Center for Student Empowerment. Our primary focus is to build student success and improve retention at the great University of Houston. This generous grant will play a crucial role in strengthening the programs we offer, particularly those aimed at supporting First-Generation students. It will directly contribute to their academic achievements and overall well-being, providing them with the necessary tools to succeed. We are truly appreciative of this funding, which will enable us to continue empowering our students to reach their full potential.”

First-Generation students often face obstacles such as financial constraints, unfamiliarity with academic procedures, and the lack of a built-in support network. The CSE aims to bridge these gaps by offering mentorship, workshops, and personalized academic support, all of which are now further bolstered by the COOG Mom Grant. Through initiatives designed to build confidence, resilience, and independence, the CSE fosters an environment where students are not only able to persist through their academic journey but also emerge as well-rounded individuals prepared for future success.

The support from the COOG Mom Grant underscores the importance of community investment in education and student development. With this funding, the CSE remains unwavering in its commitment to guiding First-Generation students through their university experience, ensuring they have access to critical resources that enhance their academic and personal growth. As the DSA continues to champion student empowerment, initiatives such as this serve as a powerful testament to the transformative impact of targeted support and investment in student achievement. This grant is more than just financial assistance—it is a symbol of encouragement, belief, and dedication to student success at the University of Houston.

Written By Dhivyadharshini Selvaraj – Marketing and Communications Coordinator- Student Affairs