The 2021-2023 FamilyU Cohort

The Inaugural FamilyU Cohort

In August 2021, Generation Hope announced the four institutions participating in the inaugural FamilyU Cohort. Our team is working with staff members and parenting students at each of these institutions through 2023 to drive student parent success. Learn more about the cohort’s impact on our blog.

 
 

The Cohort: Four Institutions Dedicated to Supporting Student Parents in the Washington, DC Region

George Mason University

George Mason University is a public four-year institution made up of three Virginia campuses, serving many minority and first-generation students.

Montgomery College

Montgomery College is a public community college made up of three Maryland campuses, and it is known as one of the most diverse community colleges in the continental U.S.

Northern Virginia Community College

Northern Virginia Community College is a public community college, the second-largest in the United States, made up of six Virginia campuses.

Trinity Washington University

Trinity University Washington is a private university located in Washington, D.C. that is recognized as a Predominantly Black Institution and a Minority Serving Institution.

Meet the Inaugural Cohort Student Parent Fellows

The best change comes when the people who are most impacted by policies are at the decision-making table. That’s why we’re thrilled to have four parenting students join us as we work with the institutions in our inaugural FamilyU Cohort. For the second year of the capacity-building experience, these Fellows work with institutional leaders to help drive change for student parents. Learn more about the fellowship and our fellows.

Student Parent Fellow Valeria Fernandez's headshot against a black background

Valeria Fernandez, George Mason University

This fall, Valeria began her enrollment at George Mason University to continue her studies as a third year Psychology student and pursue her passion of forensic art therapy. While studying and parenting her one-year-old daughter, Valeria also works full-time and enjoys making artwork. She is prepared to advocate for other student parents through sharing her own story as inspiration.

Student Parent Fellow Najah Mills' headshot against a black background

Najah Mills, Montgomery College

Najah, mother of three, is working to complete her associate’s degree in Communications Studies before transferring to a four-year school to get her bachelor’s degree. She is looking forward to using her past experiences to help advocate for the needs of student parents and serve as an example for all that they can achieve.

Student Parent Fellow Mercy Osei-Hwedie's headshot against a black background

Mercy Osei-Hwedie, Northern Virginia Community College

Mercy is pursuing her associate’s degree in Cybersecurity at Northern Virginia Community College while parenting her son, and her aspiration is to provide financial freedom for them both. She is a frequent volunteer at her church and believes that inclusivity is one of the best ways to support parents and their children.

Student Parent Fellow Lorraine Oyetubo's headshot against a black background

Lorraine Oyetubo, Trinity Washington University

Lorraine is studying Human Relations at Trinity while parenting her seven-year-old son. She currently works as a Care Navigator at a primary care doctor's office and is working to become a board certified health coach. Her ultimate goal is to open a mental health facility catered to women and mothers, assisting them in navigating the nuances of being a woman in this society. She is looking forward to sharing her time, energy, and voice to support the student parent community!

Learn about our 2021-2023 FamilyU Cohort

 

FamilyU partners with colleges and universities across the country to increase the number of parenting college students who complete their programs and graduate.

In partnership with institutional staff and student parents, the four inaugural cohort institutions are currently participating in peer learning convenings and campus-focused independent coaching sessions. Explore the 2021-2023 Cohort Timeline.

 

Want to learn more about the FamilyU Cohorts?

Our FamilyU Team would love to connect with you! Please reach out to us at familyu@generationhope.org.