National First-Generation College Celebration Day (more commonly known as "National First-Gen Day") is an annual event held on November 8th to recognize and celebrate the achievements of first-generation college students across the United States. Established in 2017 by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the Center for First-generation Student Success, the day marks the anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which helped expand access to higher education for underrepresented students. Institutions, organizations, and communities participate by hosting events, discussions, and support activities to honor first-gen students' unique challenges and successes. The celebration aims to raise awareness about the contributions of first-generation students and to foster supportive environments within educational spaces.
History
editIn 2017, the Council for Opportunity in Education and the Center for First-generation Student Success (now known as First-Gen Forward) collaborated to establish the inaugural First-Generation College Celebration.[1] November 8th was chosen to commemorate the signing of the 1965 Higher Education Act by then President Lyndon B. Johnson.[2]
Colleges, universities, corporations, non-profits, and K-12 schools were invited to celebrate the success of first-generation college students, faculty, staff, and alumni with targeted events such as guest speakers, film screenings, book discussions, and workshops.[1] Giving first-swag items, like branded t-shirts and pennants were popular, and many institutions extended their celebrations for an entire week.
Celebrants are encouraged to promote their events on social media, using the hashtag #CelebrateFirstGen.[1]
Legislative designations
editIn April 2024, the California Assembly Higher Education Committee passed Assembly Concurrent Resolution 147, authored by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego), who identifies as a first-generation college graduate.[3] The bill designates November 8th, as "California's First-Generation College Celebration Day and it encourages all California higher education institutions to celebrate the achievements of first-generation college students and graduates.[3]
References
edit- ^ a b c "First-Generation College Celebration Day". Council for Opportunity in Education. Retrieved 2024-11-03.
- ^ "First-Generation College Celebration". firstgen.naspa.org475e37a0-5d4e-11e9-8b3e0239e7c3884c. Retrieved 2024-11-03.
- ^ a b ""California's First-Generation College Celebration Day" Passes Committee | Official Website - Assemblymember David Alvarez Representing the 80th California Assembly District". a80.asmdc.org. Retrieved 2024-11-03.