The Council for Opportunity in Education (COE), in partnership with the Center for First-Generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA and The Suder Foundation, has announced the second annual First-Generation College Celebration.
Nov. 8 marks the 53rd anniversary of the 1965 signing of the Higher Education Act, which led to federally funded initiatives such as the TRIO programs, including Upward Bound and Student Support Services.
Maureen Hoyler, president of COE, a nonprofit organization dedicated to furthering higher education opportunities for low-income, first-generation students, said she’s hoping to see wider participation in year two. Many colleges and universities will hold their events on Nov. 8, but seeking to up the impact, some institutions have multiple events planned.
“To celebrate those students and the contribution they bring to campuses is important,” said Hoyler. “First-gen faculty is the second thing we need to look at.”
Hoyler said many first-gen faculty have buried the characteristics of being first-gen in order to succeed in academia. Celebrating their backgrounds uplifts students and enlightens colleagues. Lastly, these celebrations spotlight first-gen issues for policy makers, such as trustees and legislators.
Cody Walker, a senior at the West Virginia University Institute of Technology, is looking forward to meeting other first-generation students, hearing their experiences and sharing his stories. In addition to a rally and reception open to everyone on campus, there will be a financial aid session with the topic “How to repay your student loans.” Both the president and provost of the university are first-gen, and Walker looks forward to getting advice from them.
“That shows I can get through whatever I’m going through,” said Walker, a civil engineering major.
