S1 E12: CARE Because We Care: Empowering First Gen College Students, Dr. Deonte Brown, Florida State University

What if first-generation college students had a support system that started in kindergarten and stayed with them through graduation and beyond?

In this episode of Think Bigger Voices, host Jennie Treby sits down with Dr. Deonte Brown, Director of the CARE Program at Florida State University (Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement), to explore how one of the country’s most comprehensive support systems is transforming outcomes for first-gen, low-income, and underserved students. From early intervention in rural elementary schools to mentorship, career prep, and financial aid navigation in college, CARE is redefining what it means to empower students for long-term success.

Listen in to learn:

• How Title 1 schools offer very limited access to AP courses, IB courses or accelerated mechanisms like dual enrollment, placing students at an unfair advantage for college prep.
• How CARE helps students navigate college applications, housing, financial aid, and culture shock before they ever arrive on campus.
• Why community and connection are critical for first-gen student success, and how CARE builds both.
• The power of walking families through the college journey alongside their student.
• How CARE prepares students for life after college, from graduate school readiness to real-world mentorships.
• Why Dr. Brown’s own first-gen experience drives his passion for helping students thrive, not just survive.

With nearly 3,000 students in its network, CARE proves that when you build trust, structure, and opportunity, students thrive.

Links:

The CARE Program at FSU

Think Big for Kids

More about Dr. Deonte Brown

Dr. Deonte Brown

Dr. Deonte Brown on LinkedIn

About host Jennie Treby

Jennie Treby on LinkedIn

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.