First Generation Celebration
The University of New Mexico - Main and Branch Campuses join many college campuses across the nation in celebrating the 55th anniversary of the Higher Education Act where the term first-generation was first coined which has helped countless low-middle income students come the first in their families to earn college degrees.
By creating awareness, sharing stories, and highlighting resources, we hope to create a culture that encourages students to ask for help and remind them that there are thousands of Lobos just like them!
Ways to get involved!
- Share YOUR story
- Teaching a class or advising a student? Take a minute or two to share your journey of being a first-generation student! You never know who needs to hear to it!
- Display a First-Gen Proud Virtual Background
- No classroom/office, no problem! Displaying a virtual background while you're in a meeting or teaching your class can indicate to a first-generation student that you understand their perspective and are committed to their success.
- Wear your First-Gen T-Shirt!
- On the week of Nov. 8, we encourage wearing the shirt and sharing your story with students.
- Display the First-Gen Office Card
- Staff and faculty, add the First-Gen Office are to your decor to let students know you support them or that you are also a first-generation student!
- Participate in the celebration!
- Attend and invite your students and colleagues to share your first-generation stories of success.
- 2022 National First-Generation College Celebration Virtual Event. Moderated by Dr. Brenda Dann-Messier, this panel will discuss the first-generation adult learner identity, share their unique experiences and offer insight into tools and resources. Panelists include Dr. Kelly Brochu, Matt Donovan, and Dr. Vanessa Sheared.
- You may register for either date to engage with the panel and learn more from their experiences.
- November 1, 2022 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm MDT: Register Here Nov 1
- November 2, 2022 from 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm MDT: Register Here Nov 2Celebrate First Gen Students on Nov. 8th! Additional events on Nov 1 & 2.
- You may register for either date to engage with the panel and learn more from their experiences.