First-Generation Students
At Penn College, we celebrate the first-generation student experience. You are a force of inspiration and empowerment. Together, we can transform tomorrow.
Future Made By Hand
Join the community.
Whether you're a first-gen student, a champion, or both, raise your hand and your voice. Together, we can boost awareness and embolden the first-gen journey. Identify via the form below to learn about upcoming initiatives and engagement events designed to build a community of advocates across campus.
Upcoming Events
Walk-In Wednesday
Stop by Career Services in the Madigan Library, Rm. 321, during Walk-in Wednesday to get drop-in support as you follow up on leads from the career fair. Get help preparing for phone interviews, tips on negotiating salary or internships, and quick reviews to polish your resume.
We will update this location with social and academic events designed to connect you with resources and peers.
Make Connections. Find Support.
October
16
First-Generation College Celebration
Join us the week of November 4-8 for opportunities to enhance your first-generation journey.
NOV 4
DJG, Rm. 1048
2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Tuesday Night Bingo
Stop by the Hudock Center for a session on budgeting and financial literacy to kick-off first-gen celebration week! Learn some tips and tools for managing your money and making the most of your resources
NOV 5
CC Commons
7 p.m.
Tuesday Night Bingo
Join us and the Veteran Student Organization for bingo. We will have cool prizes plus information about first-generation college students.
NOV 6
ACC Auditorium
10:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Speaker Lasada Pippen
Hear Lasada "LP" Pippen's story. This former computer engineer and first-generation college graduate has a message to share about turning obstacles into opportunities.
NOV 7
BTC, Rm. 104
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
The Dr. Welch Workshop Challenge
Check out the makerspace and participate in a challenge to create something fun.
NOV 8
DJG, RM. 1048
12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Financial Aid Info Session
Learn about resources that Financial Aid has to offer, and lock in key dates and information about upcoming FAFSA applications.
Why November 8?
November 8 was selected to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, creating federal financial aid programs, which reduce barriers to first-generation student success.
What is a first-generation student?
A first-generation college student is defined as someone having parents or guardians who have not earned a four-year college degree. Nearly 47% of Penn College students identify as first-generation. We also have former first-generation college students among our faculty and staff.
Tomorrow is in the Making
“If you’re a first-generation student, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Connect with other first-gens (of all ages and experience levels) to see how we did it!”
Summer Bukeavich
Associate Professor, Business Administration/Management & Marketing
“Being a first-gen student means doing hard things but feeling greater success.”
Kaysey Beury
Coordinator of Student Success Solutions
“Being a first-generation college student didn't mean as much to me as it did to my parents. I will be forever grateful for my parents and their ability to see what was best for me, even when I couldn't see it for myself.”
Chuck Crews, Jr.
Assistant Director for Secondary Partnerships
“As a first-generation student, I was able to open doors that might not have opened otherwise. It’s not only about the education, but the opportunities, networking, and connections along the way!”
Christine Eckenrod
Assistant Professor/Director Radiography
“Being a first-generation college student means I get the privilege of breaking generational cycles while leading by example. I also get to redefine myself and the journey expected of me.”
Ashlee Felix-Taveras
Assistant Director of Student Engagement
“I am proud to be a first-generation college student. My goal is to share my knowledge with others so they don’t have to go it alone.”
Sue Kelly
Dean, School of Business, Arts & Sciences
“Having been a first-generation student, I am grateful for the work my family put forth in order for me to have the privilege to expand my learning and opportunities.”
Michael Reed
President
“My educational journey was not typical of most college students. I spent 20 years earning a bachelor’s degree. Being a first-generation college student means the world to me.”
Howard Troup
Instructor, Automated Manufacturing & Machining
“Being a first-generation college student means paying homage to those before me and trailblazing for those coming after me.”
Nate Woods, Jr.
Special Assistant to the President for Inclusion Transformation