The REACH Student Success Center and First-Generation Program invite the WVU community to help mark FirstGen Celebration Week Nov. 10-14.
“First-generation college students are trailblazers, and this week gives us an opportunity to celebrate that legacy and remind students they belong here,” said Michelle Paden, first-generation coordinator. “They are often the first in their families to navigate the college experience, and their success transforms not just their own lives, but their families and communities as well."
First-generation students, faculty and staff can attend social activities that recognize their hard work and determination, which include a mix and mingle, FirstGen in Business panel, lunch and learn session, and more.
Colleges, departments, and units are encouraged to spotlight their first-gen faculty, staff and students on websites, social media and newsletters and/or host an event for first-generation individuals and their allies to gather.
You can also celebrate by recognizing first-generation students in class and labs.
“As a first-generation student, I recognize the amount of grit it takes to pursue higher education, but the experience also brings a tremendous sense of gratitude,” said Laurel Cook, associate professor of marketing and founding director of the Social Technology and Research Lab at the John Chambers College of Business and Economics.
“Each step I’ve taken in higher ed, first as a student and now as a faculty member, has been shaped by that initial leap of faith and an intrinsic motivation to help others find their own path forward.”
Meet other first-gens from the Chambers College.
View the full lineup of activities.
The celebration marks the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, a landmark federal legislation to make higher education more accessible. The HEA paved the way for initiatives such as TRIO and Federal Pell Grants, which continue to empower students to pursue college degrees and achieve upward mobility.
The national celebration is coordinated by the Council for Opportunity in Education and the FirstGen Forward Network. Together, these organizations encourage campuses across the country to recognize the lasting impact of first-generation students and to strengthen efforts to create inclusive, supportive environments for their success.
For questions, contact the Reach Student Success Center at studentsuccess@mail.wvu.edu.