Summarizes and analyzes the experiences of 50 colleges and universities that received substantial grants from CIC/Walmart Foundation to help strengthen exemplary programs that support the education of first-generation students. Describes 10 best practices including: identifying, actively recruiting and continually tracking first generation college students; bringing students to campus early; focusing on the distinctive features of first generation college students; developing a variety of programs to meet the students' needs; using mentors; institutionalizing a commitment for first generation students; building communities; involving families; acknowledging and attempting to ease financial hardships; and keeping track of successes and failures.