ORU First-Gen Students: Paving New Paths to Success

Wall Street Journal ranked ORU #8 in America for “Student Experience” and named the University one of “America’s Best Colleges 2026.”

Tulsa, Oklahoma, November 19, 2025–Oral Roberts University (ORU) celebrated National First-Gen College Celebration Day by spotlighting ORU first-gen students—those breaking new ground as the first in their families to attend college. Twenty-five percent of ORU’s incoming class consisted of first-gen students, and these students embody resilience, hope, and the promise of a new legacy. Through dedicated scholarship funds and tailored academic services, ORU is committed to supporting first-gen students from enrollment to graduation and beyond.

“First-generation students are courageous visionaries,” said Dr. William M. Wilson, ORU President. “They step into uncharted territory with faith and perseverance. Their determination to pursue higher education not only changes their lives but reshapes the legacy of their families and communities for generations to come. ORU is proud to stand beside them as they pursue their spiritual and educational journey and prepare to impact the world.”
 





ORU supports first-gen students through a robust network of resources:

• Each student has access to an admissions specialist who walks them through the transition from inquiry to registration and housing move-in.

• Freshman floors feature Peer Success Coaches who live on site and offer after-hours assistance.

• Academic infrastructure includes tutoring services, writing labs, dedicated academic advisers, student success coaches, and orientation experiences designed for first-gen transitions.

• First-gen students are connected with local churches, campus clubs, resident advisors, and chaplains who offer guidance, prayerful support, and a sense of community.

Central to ORU’s support is the Quest First Scholarship, tailored exclusively for first-gen students. The University also hosts First-Gen Quest Day, an interactive event that guides prospective students and families through the admissions process. During Quest, first-gen students immerse themselves in the “ORU Experience” and receive personal assistance with enrollment, scholarships, and degree selection.

“Our first-generation students carry extraordinary determination and vision,” said Alison Vujnovic, Vice President of Enrollment Management. “With the Quest First Scholarship, these students aren’t simply earning a degree—they’re creating a legacy for their families and communities. At ORU, we believe leadership isn’t built solely in the classroom; it is forged through purpose, service, and perseverance. When a first-gen student graduates, the ripple effect reaches far beyond the individual—it influences the next generation.”
 




As part of National First-Gen College Celebration Day, ORU asked first-gen students to share their experience as the first college enrollees in their families:
  

“For a long time, I didn’t think college was possible for me—I had tried so many times, but life kept getting in the way. Coming to ORU has reminded me that God’s timing is perfect. Just when I was ready to give up, He opened doors I thought were closed forever. Being here has made me realize that with faith, perseverance, and the right support, anything is possible. My encouragement to other first-gen students is this: trust God’s process. Even when it feels impossible or delayed, He’s still working.” —Genisha Morton, Senior, Psychology




 

“Being at ORU is truly an honor for both me and my family. My parents and grandparents worked hard their entire lives, and my mom always dreamed of me going to college. For them, this is a huge accomplishment, and their pride and joy in my journey make it even more meaningful. Coming from a humble background, I feel blessed to be the first to reach new opportunities that were once out of reach. ORU has given me support along the way, and I am grateful for the chance to grow, learn, and make my family proud.” —Wellison “Gabriel” Maia, Junior, Biology Pre Med



 

“For me, being a first-gen means setting an example for the younger generations that getting a degree is possible and absolutely worth it. As well as showing my elders that it’s never too late to pursue what you’re passionate about. It means taking the initiative to use my God-given gifts to serve and be an inspiration to my loved ones and peers.” —Toni, Hawkins, Sophomore, Commercial Music

 

“For me, being a first-generation college student means having the courage to pursue my dreams and opportunities where no one in my family has ventured before. Every accomplishment feels both personal and collective because it's not just my story; I’m also carrying the hopes of my family. I’m proving that where we come from doesn't define where we can go. It's not just about earning a degree, but about resilience, sacrifice, and possibility.”—Peter Estiverne, Sophomore, Digital Marketing

 

Nationally Ranked, Globally Recognized

ORU is a Christian, Spirit-empowered, interdenominational university in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with 17 years of consecutive enrollment growth. Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ORU offers over 150 majors, minors, concentrations, and pre-professional programs at the bachelor’s level, ranging from business and engineering to nursing, ministry, and more. In 2024, the Carnegie Foundation recognized ORU with a “Leadership for Public Purpose” award, a distinction earned by only 25 universities nationwide. Under the leadership of President Dr. William Wilson, ORU is preparing students from all 50 states and 174 nations in the last 6 years to be whole leaders for the whole world.