Today is National First-Generation College Celebration Day
November 8, 2022 10:31 AM

Dear Campus Community,

Today is National First-Generation College Celebration Day. To all Illinois first-gen students, I commend you for being one of the first in your family to attend college! Your commitment to better yourselves, the lives of your families, and those of your classmates and society is evidence of your strong character and conviction.

Institutions and education agencies nationwide participate in First-Generation College Celebration Day to highlight the achievements of students, educators, and alumni who are the first members of their families to pursue college degrees and to encourage this critical and resilient population to continue thriving.

The first national First-Generation College Celebration Day occurred in 2017 when the nonprofit Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) encouraged institutions nationwide on or around November 8 to celebrate first-generation college students or graduates. 

COE selected November 8 to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965. This landmark legislation emerged as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty. It ushered in programs, particularly the Federal TRIO programs, necessary for postsecondary access, retention, and completion for low-income, potential first-generation college graduates.

For more information about First-Generation College Celebration Day, click here.

While, I still have your attention, are YOU a proud first-generation faculty or staff member like I am? Are you looking for a mentor that identifies as first-gen, or you just want to learn more about campus resources and/or programs and events, then join the first-gen online directory!  Learn more about the first-gen directory and then complete the interest form and upload your photo.

Sincerely,

Danita M. Brown Young
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs