Forward Program

Contact: THECB Foster Liaison Brenda Fernandez

Email: forward@shsu.edu

For more information about the FORWARD Program, complete the FORWARD information form.

The mission of Sam Houston State University's FORWARD Program is to empower former foster youth, orphans, and wards of the court or homeless students by providing the support system necessary to pursue higher education and transition smoothly through college. FORWARD serves as a resource to help students build meaningful relationships that are important to successful personal and professional achievements.

Looking FORWARD to your future

The first thing you need to do is make a plan to go to college. Learn how to go to college and start right now.

Future Forward Bearkats

There is money out there for you! Financial aid, scholarships, grants, and more are available to qualifying students. Find out what you need to do to get money to cover the cost of attending college.

Monetary Aid

Living at SHSU can be exciting and fun! We can offer year-round on-campus housing and waivers for holiday break fees.

Housing Assistance

While you are in college study hard and live well. Reach out for help, and you will find many programs dedicated to supporting students.

Campus Resources

If you need help finding a job now or in the future, Career Services is the place to visit. During college and after you graduate, we will help you with on-campus jobs, employment preparation, internships, job fairs, and more.

Job Resources

The Huntsville community has many resources for our Sam Houston State University students.

Community Resources

Bearkats in the FORWARD Program are eligible to apply for a special graduation package to ease the burden of graduation.

Graduation Package

Generous support from alumni and friends like you help provide our former fosters and independent students with the best professors, facilities, technology, and success in fulfilling a college career.

Ways to Donate