Weeklong celebration planned for First-Generation college students

Lamar University will honor its first-generation (first-gen) college students with a series of events during First-Gen College Celebration Week, starting Monday, Nov. 4, and running through Saturday, Nov 9. The week will feature activities designed to recognize and support first-gen students, offering resources, networking opportunities, and a special awards luncheon.

The celebration is part of Lamar University's First-Generation Connections program, which aims to ensure that all students, particularly first-gen, have access to the tools they need to succeed. At LU, a first-gen student is defined as someone whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree in the United States.

"Research shows that the barriers to success for first-generation students are not just academic. Social, emotional, and physical challenges can be just as impactful," the program website states. The university is calling on the entire campus community to join in building a support network to help first-gen students thrive.

Events kick off Monday with a First Gen Connections Pop Up Shop from 9 to 11 a.m. in front of the Office of Strategic Initiatives. Free first-gen T-shirts and swag will be available while supplies last.

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, the College of Business Celebration will take place from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Room 242 of the College of Business. Students can enjoy pizza and pop while engaging with Dr. Joby John, dean of the College of Business, in an informal chat.

Wednesday, Nov. 6, will feature Coffee & Conversations from 8 to 10 a.m. in the lobby of the Center for Resiliency at Cherry Engineering. Students can learn more about Lamar University's first-gen initiatives, register for door prizes, and receive free swag.

The Cardinal Care & First-Gen Resource Fair will be held Thursday, Nov. 7, from noon to 2 p.m. in the Setzer Student Center Atrium. First-gen students will have the chance to receive swag bags and engage with campus resources that support their success.

On Friday, Nov. 8, the First-Gen College Celebration Student Awards Luncheon will take place from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Reaud Executive Event Space. Guest speaker Dr. Thomas Johnson, president of Lamar State College Orange, will address attendees, and first-gen students will be recognized for their accomplishments. The luncheon is by invitation only.

The week concludes Saturday, Nov. 9, with a Virtual First-Gen College Celebration Event at 11 a.m., featuring a panel discussion on coping skills for first-gen students. Students can email [email protected] to participate, with door prizes available for attendees.

To learn more about the First-Generation Connections program, visit http://www.lamar.edu/firstgen.