The University of Alaska Fairbanks celebrated the first annual celebration of first-gen baccalaureate degree graduates, led in part by the institution's Student Support Services program. Roughly 50 students attended the cording ceremony with many friends, family, and supporters in attendance--well over 100 individuals were present for this event where every featured speaker identified as first-gen. Over 100 students total received teal cords that were proudly displayed at the 97th annual UAF Commencement Ceremony.

First generation students at South Seattle College

South Seattle College celebrated “I’m First Gen!” hosted by the five TRIO programs on campus. About 50 students and staff attended the one-hour event which included cupcakes and other treats, networking opportunities to mingle with first generation faculty and staff, a slide show of first gen celebrities and staff, and a photo corner for students to use our First Gen Snapchat filter. Faculty and staff also received a flyer to place in their classrooms that recognizes their First Generation status.

 

 

 

 

TRIO students at South Seattle College

We had a blast at Oregon State!

TRIO Student Support Services hosted a #1-themed open house with cupcakes, a First Gen trivia quiz with raffle, photo staging, and crafts. For the crafts, we created a tree to celebrate personal growth—guests were invited to trace and cut out their handprint and then write a “first” they have accomplished. We also provided “#1” door sign templates for guests to decorate and take back to their work or living spaces. It was tons of fun and felt great to have everyone express appreciation for first-gen college students.