Stephanie Bannister, Manhattan, Kansas, is the president of FirstGen Forward, the center for first-generation student success. She leads the organization’s mission to serve as the premier source for advancing student success through a first-generation lens — equipping the higher education community with evidence-based approaches, data-informed strategies, professional development, and research.

With more than two decades of experience in higher education, Bannister has dedicated her career to advancing student success, community building, and leadership development. Prior to assuming the presidency, she served as vice president for the FirstGen Forward Network, where she helped strengthen institutional partnerships and national impact.

Bannister previously served as assistant vice provost for student success at K-State, following a long tenure in student life and student success leadership roles.

Bannister earned a bachelor’s degree from Fort Hays State University in 1992, a master’s degree from the University of Kansas in 1995, and a doctorate in education from K-State in  2009.

She and her husband, Grant, have three children, Sydney, William ’24 and Grace.