Presbyterian College has named higher education leader Tomeika Bennett as the new director of Presby First+, the college’s signature support program for first-generation college students across both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Bennett brings more than 14 years of experience in student success, academic advising, and program management to her new role. A first-generation college graduate herself, she said her lived experience fuels her passion for creating meaningful opportunities for students navigating college for the first time in their families.

“This position is very personal to me because I was a first-generation college student,” Bennett said. “I also went to a smaller college, and the sense of community here at PC really resonates with me—especially the way it can help foster belonging for students who don’t necessarily have that college-going tradition in their background.”

Bennett joins Presbyterian College from Hollingsworth Funds in Greenville, S.C., where she focused on building inclusive community networks and strategic grantmaking to support equity and social mobility. Her previous roles include leadership and student development positions at Greenville Technical College, Furman University, Lander University, and the University of South Carolina’s TRIO Educational Talent Search program.

“Tomeika is the total package,” said Dr. Selena Blair, Rogers-Ingram Vice President for Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at PC. “She brings a wealth of experience in higher education along with her personal journey as a first-generation college graduate. That combination makes her uniquely qualified to build strong relationships with students, faculty, and staff. We are incredibly blessed to have her take Presby First+ to the next level.”

Presby First+ provides resources, mentorship, and support services for PC students who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree. The program hosts academic workshops, cultural events, and leadership development opportunities aimed at building confidence and strengthening campus connections. While historically focused on the undergraduate experience, the program now plays a growing role in fostering belonging and success for students in PC’s three graduate programs: the Occupational Therapy Doctoral Program, the Physician Assistant Program, and the PC School of Pharmacy.

Bennett said she was drawn to the role not only because of its direct impact on students, but also because of its potential to influence broader policy and practice in higher education.

“There’s a great foundation already in place at PC, and I see this as an opportunity to elevate and build upon that work,” she said. “Part of my natural competitive nature kicks in—I’d love to see Presbyterian College become a national leader in supporting first-gen students.”

As a national indicator of its leadership in this area, Presbyterian College was recently named a First-gen Forward Network Champion by the Center for First-generation Student Success. PC is one of only 18 institutions in the country selected for this year’s class, a recognition that honors colleges and universities demonstrating innovation and commitment in supporting first-generation students.

“This national designation reflects PC’s dedication to expanding resources, enhancing academic support, and building a community where all students—especially those who are the first in their families to go to college—can thrive,” Blair said.

Looking ahead, Bennett plans to focus on expanding students’ access to social capital, including professional networks and experiential learning opportunities that support long-term success.

“For many first-gen students, building connections is a key part of navigating college and planning their future,” she said. “We want to be intentional about helping them develop those networks—whether that’s through on-campus internships, study away programs, or career mentorship.”

Bennett also emphasized the importance of student voice in shaping the future of the program.

“Giving students more ownership of their experience is critical,” she said. “It helps inform the direction we go, and it empowers them to lead. That’s what education is really about—expanding worldview, building confidence, and helping students recognize the leaders they already are.”

With Bennett at the helm, Presby First+ is poised to deepen its impact and expand opportunities for students across campus.

“She understands what our students need because she’s walked that path herself,” Blair said. “Her leadership is exactly what we need as we continue to grow our commitment to student success and equity.”