Today@Sam Article
Celebrating First-Gen Success
Oct. 31, 2022
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti
In honor of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 that expanded college opportunities for low-income and first-generation populations, Nov. 8 is observed as National First-Generation Day.
Sam Houston State University is proud to participate in this day of recognizing the success of first-generation students, faculty, staff and alumni. All eight of SHSU's colleges, along with the Graduate School, are celebrating its first-generation students by hosting events during the weeklong celebration.
A student is considered first-generation if neither parent nor guardian earned a bachelor’s degree in the United States. At SHSU, approximately 50 percent of undergraduate students are first-generation.
The university recently debuted SHSU’s First-Generation Center, providing the space for all those around campus who are dedicated to first-gen student success to be at the table together to share ideas, achievements, research and best practices.
Jaime F. Peña Jr., assistant director of the First-Generation Center, believes celebrating this national day is important to help spread the positive image of being a first-generation student.
“As a first-gen student myself, I understand how hard it is to go to college, but with the support of faculty, staff and mentors I was able to navigate the challenges along the way. We are a university that provides our students with a supportive college experience,” Peña said. “This weeklong celebration is possible thanks to partnerships with all the colleges and programs on campus. Let's build a positive community together, where we support one another and encourage a sense of belonging. I hope to see everyone there.”
The university’s First-Generation Center, along with the SHSU colleges, will participate in the national celebration with several special events.
Upcoming SHSU First-Gen Events:
Other first-gen Today@Sam articles
- Centered On First-Gen Success
- We are First-Gen
- Champions for the Next Generation
- My First-Gen Journey
- Passion to Make a Difference
- First-Gen Student Athlete
- Here to Help: First-Generation Center
- First-Gen Student Support Program Receives Grant Funding
- Celebrating First-Generation Students
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