At Penn College, we celebrate the first-generation college student experience. You are a force of inspiration and empowerment. Together, we can transform tomorrow.
Each year we honor National First-Generation College Celebration Day, which is November 8. This commemorates the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which created federal financial aid programs to reduce barriers to first-generation student success.
First-Gen Student Showcase 2026
3:30 PM on Thursday, November 5
First-Generation College Celebration Week at Penn College featured an array of exploration and information, highlighted by Lasada “LP” Pippen, a former computer engineer turned motivational speaker.
Penn College hosted a First-Generation Celebration on Thursday – building community, sharing resources and showcasing student achievements.
Check out events from our past celebrations and join us for opportunities to enhance your first-generation journey in the future.
Budgeting Session
Students dropped by the Hudock Center for a session on budgeting and financial literacy to kick-off first-gen celebration week. They learned tips and tools for managing money and making the most of their resources.
Tuesday Night Bingo
Did you know First-Gen Celebration coincides with Veteran's Week? In collaboration with the Student Veterans Organization, we hosted a special edition of Campus Bingo. Students won cool prizes and received information about both student veterans and first-generation college students.
Speaker Lasada Pippen
Lasada "LP" Pippen shared his story with students and the community in two events on campus. This former computer engineer and first-generation college graduate has a message to share about turning obstacles into opportunities. He also recorded an episode of the Penn College Tomorrow Makers podcast, available now.
Dr. Welch Workshop Exploration
The Dr. Welch Workshop was a busy place during the 2024 celebration. Students took advantage of the makerspace and created something using some of the free resources Penn College students have access to.
Financial Aid Info Session
Students had a chance to connect with someone in Financial Aid to learn about resources their office has to offer. Key dates and information about upcoming FAFSA applications were shared during this session.