The Office of First-Generation Student Initiatives Recognizes First-Gen Students Through Virtual Celebration

At UW Tacoma’s Office of First-Generation Student Initiatives, first-generation students, which make up more than half of the student population, can find support and resources to help with their college transition and experience. From academic and personal growth workshops, peer success mentoring, financial wellness, and first-gen fellows cohort programs, the office provides numerous resources to students through its various activities and events hosted throughout the school year.

The National First Gen Celebration, a signature event hosted by UWT’s Office of First-Generation Student Initiatives, is a nationally recognized celebration held each year on November 8th. This particular date was selected as the National First-Generation College Celebration in honor of the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, an act that worked to help minorities and low-income individuals receive a higher education through educational finance support. The annual event acknowledges first-generation students' experiences and accomplishments, customarily featuring speakers, fun swag, commitment boards, and the customary reveal of the “We Are First Gen” of the year.

Due to COVID restrictions this past 2020 year, however, the annual activities occurred a little differently and the once in-person events went virtual. The itinerary featured a week-long series of virtual programming starring a “Your Career Journey” speaker presentation, along with a virtual salary negotiation workshop, a “We Are First Generation” stories campaign, and various other fun activities.

This year’s fifth annual celebration will be hosted on Monday, November 8th, 2021. To stay updated, be sure to follow UW Tacoma’s First Gen Fellows Instagram and Facebook accounts or check out the Center for First-Generation Student Success website here.