Transforming lives of first-generation students
For Hemen Awedew, a third-year health sciences major from Blacklick, Ohio, the Kessler Scholars Program has reshaped her college journey.
“It changed my life,” said Awedew. “At first, I didn’t know how to ask for help. Kessler gave me support when I needed it most.”
Launched at Ohio State in autumn 2023, the program has welcomed more than 135 first-generation, limited-income students. Scholars like Awedew benefit from personalized advising and support from dedicated staff and peer mentors, along with cohort activities and programming that build a sense of belonging. Through study groups, check-ins and leadership opportunities, Kessler helped Awedew navigate the challenging transition from high school to college while strengthening her academic, personal and professional skills.
“Entering college can be overwhelming,” she recalls. “I’m so grateful to this program — for helping students like me see that we belong and can succeed.”
Awedew quickly went from mentee to mentor, guiding three new scholars during her second year. She also joined the Kessler Scholars Collaborative Student Leadership Board, connecting with peers across the country, and found a community that reinforced her dream of becoming a physician’s assistant.
“Kessler helped me get through every single rough patch,” she says.
That kind of impact reflects the program’s mission to support students like Awedew. To sustain this work, Ohio State has been awarded a $1.1 million, four-year extension grant, offered through the Kessler Scholars Collaborative and funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Judy and Fred Wilpon Family Foundation. The Collaborative is a network of 16 universities that share resources, evaluate best practices and support first-generation student success.
“We are deeply grateful to Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Judy and Fred Wilpon Family Foundation for their continued support of first-generation Buckeyes,” said Vice Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Education Norman Jones. “This grant extension helps students like Hemen Awedew thrive at Ohio State, empowering them to become leaders who make an impactful difference in their careers and communities.”
Early results show the program supports students in meaningful ways. Kessler Scholars across the country are graduating at significantly higher rates than their first-generation peers and overwhelmingly report a strong sense of belonging.
For Awedew, the results are personal.
“I’m so thankful for the people and support that have made this possible. It’s not just a program. It’s family.”
For more information about the Kessler Scholars Collaborative, visit www.kesslerscholars.org.