First-Generation College Celebration

All first-generation students are invited to mingle with fellow students, share stories and advice, participate in fun activities and enjoy light refreshments.

History

Nov. 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 had for too long been weighed against Americans from minority and low-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 postsecondary access, retention and completion for low-income, potential first-generation college graduates.

In 2017, the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the Center for First-Generation Student Success launched the inaugural First-Generation College Celebration! On Nov. 8, colleges, universities, corporations, non-profits and K-12 schools are encouraged to celebrate the success of first-generation college students, faculty, staff and alumni.

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