The River Hawk Scholars Academy (RHSA) promotes academic success and fosters active campus engagement for UMass Lowell students who identify as first-generation college students.

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We provide academic opportunities inside and outside the classroom, meaningful activities, and holistic support to RHSA students throughout their entire college journey, from their transition coming out of high school to their academic experience on a diverse college campus to their preparation for their career when they graduate.

RHSA students will experience intellectual and personal growth as they become empowered to advocate for themselves and better prepared to take advantage of the many opportunities our university has to offer. The Academy is the proud recipient of UMass Lowell's Pillars of Excellence Distinguished Award and the Commonwealth Citation for Outstanding Performance.

River Hawk Scholars Academy News

First-Gen Forward is the nation's first recognition program acknowledging higher education institutions for their commitment to first-generation student success.

First-gen Forward is the nation's first recognition program acknowledging higher education institutions for their commitment to first-generation student success. As a First-Gen Forward Advisory Institution, UMass Lowell is proud to be part of a community of professionals that share evidence-based practices and resources, troubleshoot challenges, generate knowledge, and continue to advance the success of first-generation students across the country.

RHSA Events