EMU observed First-Generation College Celebration Day with tasty treats and giveaways.
On Friday, Nov. 7, outside the University Commons, EMU staff members handed out hot cider, fresh doughnuts from Strite’s, and raffled off a colossal 12-inch doughnut. EMU students who identify as first-generation, meaning neither parent nor guardian earned a four-year college degree from a U.S. institution, could pick up free First-Gen T-shirts and keychains.
The annual First-Generation College Celebration, held on and around Nov. 8, brings together hundreds of colleges and universities across the country to recognize the achievements of the first-generation community and raise awareness of the unique challenges first-gen students face. The day commemorates the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson, which created federal financial aid programs to fund students’ educations and made key investments in colleges and universities.
EMU is a member of the FirstGen Forward Network, which recognizes schools that display a demonstrated commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students. According to EMU’s annual fall census numbers from Sept. 8, 48% of first-year undergraduate students identify as first-generation college students. That figure is a 13% increase from last fall’s numbers.
Tara Kishbaugh, dean of faculty and student success at EMU and a first-generation college alumna herself, said the celebration aims to elevate the experience of first-gen students. “They’re highly capable, highly driven, super courageous, and don’t necessarily know who to ask for advice or insight,” she said. “We want to remove that stigma about seeking help and show them they’re not alone.”
EMU’s First Generation Working Group includes Tara Kishbaugh, Jonathan Swartz, Yeimarie Lopez, Trina Nussbaum, Tyler Goss, Luke Litwiller, Dawn Neil, Deanna Reed, Celeste Thomas, and Annalise Livingston.
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