First-generation college students are trailblazers: Being a first-gen student means that your parent(s) did not complete a 4-year college or university degree, regardless of other family members’ — such as siblings’ — levels of education.
”As a first-gen student myself,” said Sandra Bulmer, SCSU interim president, “I know that the path through higher education is not always easy when you are first in your family to attend college. But I also know that we learn much along that path that prepares us for life beyond campus. Our first-gen students inspire us and are a vital part of our community, showing us that education truly has the power to transform lives.”
This academic year, more than a third of Southern’s student body — both undergraduate and graduate — identify as first-gen. And on November 6, Southern will mark National First-Gen Day with three special events throughout the day:
First-Gen Day Celebration: Keynote Talk – “Processing Pain: Turning Lived Experiences Into Legacy”
11:00am – 12:15pm
Adanti Student Center – Theater
In this inspiring keynote, award-winning journalist, publicist, and Southern alum Stacy Graham-Hunt, ’06, shares how she turned personal pain into published work, public platforms, and a powerful career rooted in storytelling and community. As a first-gen college graduate, Stacy knows what it means to navigate uncharted territory and how to transform lived experiences into legacy work. Learn more here
First-Gen Day Celebration: Campus Lunch Celebration
12:30pm – 2:30pm
Engleman Hall – Room B121
Indulge in an amazing lunch, plus participate in raffles, win prizes, and take part in surprise activities that will keep the energy high and the smiles going! Learn more here
First-Gen Day Celebration: Interactive Workshop – Writing the Book That’s Been Living Inside You
3:30pm – 5:00pm
Engleman Hall – Room B121
What if your hardest moments held the key to your greatest impact? If you’ve ever thought, “One day I’ll write a book about this…”?
This is your invitation to start.
Learn more here
Students, faculty, and staff are invited to show their first-gen pride or allyship all year round by displaying first-gen graphic resources like email signatures and Zoom backgrounds.
First-gen students, faculty, and staff are also invited to share their stories: to consider reflecting on their experience, and sharing their personal or professional journey — the challenges and advantages, the barriers and benefits, the lows and the highs. What does it mean, or what has it meant, to be a first-generation college student? Tell your story here.
If you’re sharing your first-gen story on your social media accounts, consider using the hashtag #SCSUFirstGen so the university can celebrate you!
While the university strives to support all students on their academic journeys, it also understands that first-gen students may need a bit more support, or different kinds of support. As the institutional commitment to first-gen student success and celebrating first-gen identity on campus is a priority, Southern has developed a First-Gen Initiative, which is a community of support from peer mentors, faculty, and staff. Visit the First-Gen website for more information about all Southern has to offer for the first-gen community.
In 2023, Southern was selected as one of 76 new members of the prestigious First Scholars Network for the academic year 2023-24. This honor, bestowed by the Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators and The Suder Foundation, distinguishes Southern for its support of first-generation students and its commitment to advancing degree completion.
The mission statement of Southern’s First-Gen initiative is: “The First-Generation Student Success initiative empowers students who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree by fostering a supportive and inclusive community that champions their academic, personal, and professional growth. We are dedicated to removing barriers, building confidence, and equipping students with the knowledge, resources, and connections needed to thrive at Southern Connecticut State University and beyond. Through mentorship, advocacy, and holistic support, we celebrate the resilience and achievement of first-generation scholars while paving the way for future generations to succeed.”
