David Shein Launches First-Gen Student Success Pledge

NY, USA, 12th May 2026, ZEX PR WIRE — David Shein, longtime higher education leader and former Vice President for Student Success and Network Integration at Bard College, is launching a new personal initiative: the First-Generation Student Success Pledge.

The pledge focuses on a timely and urgent issue—how to better support students who enter college without a clear roadmap. Drawing from over 25 years of experience, Shein is calling on individuals to take small, consistent actions that improve access, awareness, and student confidence.

“I was a first-generation college student before we knew what that meant,” Shein says. “I didn’t have a roadmap.”

He adds, “For many students, college can feel like an alien environment. If you don’t know how to navigate it, you can miss out on opportunities that change your life.”

Why This Matters Now

• 33% of U.S. college students are first-generation (NCES)

• First-generation students are less likely to graduate within six years than continuing-generation peers

• Nearly 60% of first-generation students work while enrolled, often balancing financial pressure

• Many are less likely to access advising and support services, even when available

“These gaps are not about ability,” Shein says. “They are about access and connection.”

The First-Generation Student Success Pledge

Shein’s pledge turns his core ideas into seven simple, repeatable actions:

1. Share one college resource each week with a student or family member of a student

2. Offer guidance to at least one student per month navigating school or career decisions

3. Break down one complex process (applications, financial aid, internships) into simple steps

4. Help at least one student to ask questions or seek help early

5. Connect at least one student to a scholarship, program, or mentor

6. Listen first before giving input, especially to those unfamiliar with the system

7. Promote a sense of belonging by reminding students they deserve to be there

“At the core of this work is making the full college experience accessible,” Shein says.

A Practical Approach to Student Success

Shein’s career has focused on building what he calls “connective tissue” between academic and student support systems.

“I’ve spent my career helping students participate in environments that can feel unfamiliar,” he says. “When we connect the pieces, outcomes improve.”

His work at Bard College included founding the Learning Commons, Disability Support Services, and the Center for Student Life and Advising—programs designed to reduce confusion and increase engagement.

Do It Yourself Toolkit: 10 Free Actions Anyone Can Take

You don’t need a formal role to make a difference. Here are simple actions anyone can take:

1. Explain how college applications work to a student.

2. Help someone find and apply for free scholarships.

3. Share deadlines for schools, internships, or programs.

4. Review a resume or personal statement.

5. Encourage attendance at campus or virtual events.

6. Connect a student to someone in your network.

7. Talk openly about your own learning experiences.

8. Volunteer at a local school or library.

9. Help students set short-term academic goals.

10. Check in regularly and ask how things are going.

“Sometimes the most important thing is helping someone feel like they belong,” Shein says.

30-Day Progress Tracker

Use this simple tracker to stay consistent:

Week 1:
– Shared 2 resources
– Had 1 conversation with a student

Week 2:
– Helped break down one process
– Encouraged questions or follow-up

Week 3:
– Made one introduction or connection
– Reviewed a resume or application

Week 4:
– Checked in with two students
– Shared one new opportunity

End of 30 Days:
– Reflected on impact
– Committed to continuing the pledge

Call to Action

David Shein invites individuals, educators, and community members to take the pledge.

Start small. Stay consistent. Share what you learn.

Take the First-Generation Student Success Pledge and pass this toolkit to someone else who can do the same.

To read the full interview, visit the website here.

About David Shein
David Shein is an educator, academic leader, and independent educational consultant based in Red Hook, New York. He has over 30 years of experience in higher education, most recently as Vice President for Student Success and Network Integration at Bard College. He has dedicated his career to improving access to higher education and helping students fully engage with their academic experiences.