The Suder Foundation began in 2008 with a mission to transform higher education. Founders Deborah and Eric Suder saw the unique needs of first-generation college students and acted to address them. Their focus has always been simple: give students the resources and confidence to succeed in college, career, and life.
A Vision for Student Success
In 2009, The Suder Foundation launched the First Scholars® Program. This initiative goes beyond scholarships. It delivers mentorship, academic support, and community resources. The program dramatically improves graduation rates while unlocking student potential. It helps first-gen students achieve lasting success.
Partnering with NASPA
By 2017, The Suder Foundation sought to expand its impact. The organization partnered with NASPA, the national association of student affairs administrators in higher education. Together, they created the Center for First-generation Student Success. This partnership scaled the First Scholars model and reached colleges across the country.
Today, The Suder Foundation continues to lead in advancing first-gen student success. Recently, the Foundation, now a supporting organization at The Dallas Foundation, announced a $10 million investment in the Center. This new commitment funds a five-year growth plan. It will expand resources, increase national reach, and serve more students than ever before.
A Commitment to Transformation
Explaining the investment, Eric Suder, founder and chair, shared: “We believe in the lifelong potential of first-gen college students. We believe in the power of higher education institutions to create transformational change. This investment reaffirms our commitment to the vision and leadership of the Center and NASPA. Together, we can expand impact and benefit more first-generation students nationwide.”
The Suder Foundation has already changed the lives of thousands of students. With each new step, the organization drives transformation in higher education. Its vision ensures that first-generation students receive the support they need to succeed for generations to come.
