November 8 was selected as the date for the annual National First-Generation College Celebration to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965. The Higher Education Act (“HEA”) emerged out of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty. Much like other hallmark legislation of that era, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, HEA was intended to help level a playing field that for too long had been weighed against Americans from minority and limited-income backgrounds. In addition to creating federal grants and loan programs to help students finance their educations, the legislation made key investments in institutions of higher education. Additionally, HEA ushered in programs, particularly the Federal TRIO programs, necessary for post-secondary access, retention, and completion for limited-income, potential first-generation college graduates.
Schedule of Events
Join us for a weeklong celebration of first-generation college students and graduates, featuring workshops and panels, professional development, networking, giveaways, and a pep rally.
RSVP for the events you would like to attend using our combined RSVP form.
Tuesday, November 4 | First-Gen Pep Rally & Resource Fair |
Wednesday, November 5 | First-Gen Panel Discussion |
Thursday, November 6 | Lunch and Learn with Faculty & Students First-Gen Connect |
Saturday, November 8 | Social Media Showcase |
Download the First-Gen Day Virtual Background
Display this special virtual background on Zoom and Teams throughout our 2025 celebration to show your pride in our first-gen Panthers!
