David Shein of Red Hook, New York, urges institutions and communities to rethink how they support students navigating college without a roadmap.
RED HOOK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 20, 2026 / David Shein, longtime academic leader and former Vice President for Student Success and Network Integration at Bard College, is speaking out on the need to better support first-generation college students and those who struggle to navigate higher education systems.
Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in academic leadership, advising, and program development, Shein is encouraging colleges, educators, and communities to take a more connected and inclusive approach to student success.
"I was a first-generation college student before we knew what that meant," Shein says. "I didn't have a roadmap. That experience shaped everything I've done since."
Why First-Generation Student Support Matters
First-generation college students make up a significant portion of today's student population. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, roughly one-third of undergraduate students in the United States are first-generation. Yet many face systemic barriers that impact retention and graduation rates.
Research shows that first-generation students are:
Less likely to graduate within six years compared to their peers
More likely to work while enrolled, often balancing financial pressure
Less likely to access academic advising and campus resources
These challenges are often not about ability, but access and awareness.
"For many students, college can feel like an alien environment," Shein explains. "If you don't know how to navigate it, you can miss out on opportunities that could change your life."
A Career Focused on Access and Connection
During his tenure at Bard College, Shein helped build systems designed to close these gaps. He founded the Academic Services Center (now the Learning Commons) and helped to create the Center for Student Life and Advising. Each initiative aimed to forge clearer pathways for students to succeed.
His work extended beyond a single campus. Shein helped develop international partnerships, supported dual-degree programs, and contributed to the creation of Bard's online Global Degree program.
"At the core of this work is making the full college experience accessible," he says. "It's not just about getting students in the door. It's about helping them engage in meaningful ways once they're there."
The Case for Integrated Student Support Systems
Shein believes one of the biggest issues in higher education is fragmentation. Academic departments, advising, and student services often operate in silos.
His approach has been to build what he calls "connective tissue" across these areas.
"I've spent my career working with faculty and administrators to connect academic and student affairs," he says. "When those pieces work together, students are far more likely to succeed."
Studies support this view. Institutions with integrated advising and support systems report:
Higher student retention rates
Improved academic performance
Greater student satisfaction and engagement
Expanding Opportunity Beyond Campus
Shein's work has also focused on extending access beyond traditional college settings.
He taught for and helped to expand the Clemente Course in the Humanities into new communities, offering free, high-quality education to underserved populations. He also played a role in launching programs that connect students across global networks.
"It's about helping students connect with their experiences in ways that impact their lives beyond college," he says.
In 2019, Shein's contributions to international education were recognized with a Fulbright scholarship.
A Call to Action: What Individuals Can Do
While institutions play a major role, Shein emphasizes that individuals also have power to make a difference.
"Supporting students doesn't always require large systems," he says. "It starts with awareness and small actions."
He encourages people to:
Mentor a student navigating school or career decisions
Share knowledge about college processes, scholarships, and opportunities
Volunteer with local libraries, schools, or community education programs
Advocate for accessible and inclusive learning environments
"Sometimes the most important thing is helping someone feel like they belong," Shein adds.
Looking Ahead
Since retiring from Bard College, Shein has worked as an independent educational consultant.. He continues to help educators and students design programs that support success.
His mission remains rooted in his own experience.
"I've spent my career helping students participate in environments that can feel unfamiliar," he says. "When we make those environments more accessible, we change outcomes."
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About First-Generation College Student Support
First-generation college students are individuals whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree. They represent a growing and diverse segment of the higher education population. Expanding access, improving advising systems, and creating inclusive campus environments are widely recognized as key factors in improving outcomes for these students.
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SOURCE: David Shein
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