What is the First-Generation College Celebration?
FGCC is celebrated annually on November 8 to promote greater awareness of the experiences and successes of first-generation college communities across the nation. At Salem State University, the First-Generation Student Success Center and First Year Experience, in partnership with other Salem State offices, lead the annual celebration with events for students, staff and faculty. These events showcase student successes and experiences, present student-led panels, promote college support structures, and otherwise celebrate the first-generation community in a multitude of ways.
Who is first-generation?
A first-generation student is broadly defined as neither parent nor guardian having graduated with a bachelor’s degree from a 4-year college/university in the US.
How can I participate in the celebration?
| Event | What is it? Who can join? | How can I join? |
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First-Gen Community Conversation Tuesday, November 5, 12-1:30 pm, Berry Library 215
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For SSU faculty, staff and students. Join us in a conversation as we brainstorm ideas to improve how we serve first-generation students at SSU! Small changes can make a big difference! We'll plan to share what we generate with the wider community. You are welcome to join as you are able, we know some folks will be coming from or going directly to class that day. Browse our new First-Gen Faculty and Staff Yearbook!
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We'll add you to our calendar invite and send any updates. Do you work with first generation students or faculty/staff that might want to participate? Please forward to this faculty, staff and students that you think might be interested.
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Fearless F1RST Photoshoot! Thursday, November 7 3-6 pm, Ellison Campus Center, Commuter lounge
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For all first-gen students at SSU: Book your spot and get your photo taken by a professional photographer! Get a Fearless First t-shirt!
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Book your place for the photoshoot!
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First-Gen Student Panel “From Challenges to Triumphs: Celebrating First-Gen Champions” Thursday, November 7 1-2 pm, Ellison Campus Center, MLK Room |
For SSU faculty, staff and students. Join us to hear from SSU first-gen students:
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Open to all! Just come and learn with us! |
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First-Gen Student Celebration Friday, November 8 11 am-2 pm, Ellison Campus Center, MLK Room
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For SSU faculty, staff and students. Join us to celebrate our First-Gen SSU Community and our First-Gen Students! Food and fun provided!
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Open to all! Just come and celebrate with us! If you can, please RSVP to help us get a headcount for the event.
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Other events and happenings around campus!
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For SSU faculty, staff and students. SSU Dining Commons Enjoy First-Gen cookies and cupcakes on Monday and Tuesday; unusual ice cream and smoothie recipes Thursday, and more! Read about “Featured Firsts” as you sit at a table in central or north dining!
SSU Berry Library Explore the “Idea Den” at the entrance of the Berry Library, see the book displays and browse through resources on first-gen teaching and learning!
SSU Bookstore: Do you want to get a First-Gen T-shirt? A First-Gen Decal? Go to the bookstore, buy them and showcase your pride in our first community!
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Open to all! Just visit these locations and enjoy the resources, buy new first-gen t-shirts, or read about our “Featured Firsts” while you sip on an unusual smoothie!
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Resources you can use to celebrate First-Gen Week with us!
First-generation students: Learn about the RISE program and the First-Generation Student Success Center! Learn about the Tri-Alpha honors society! Join the First-Generation Student Community! Download the “first-gen voices” PDF, write your story of what it means for you to be a first-gen student, and send it to firstgen@salemstate.edu!
Faculty and Staff: Join the First-Generation Yearbook initiative! Browse existing profiles, and contact us to be a part of it! Send us tips and tricks for our first-generation students! Contact us at firstgen@salemstate.edu
History of the First-Generation College Celebration
The November 8th date was chosen to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson. This was the founding act that created federal financial aid programs to fund educational opportunities for underserved communities across the United States, and make key investments in colleges and universities.
The national first-generation celebration was launched in 2017 by the Center for First-Generation Student Success and the COE. Since then, a growing number of institutions have used this celebration to create their own events, enter the First Scholars Network, and promote systemic change for first-generation learners.
Do You Want More Information?
Contact the First-Generation Student Success Center and speak to one of our staff members!
- Administration Building, North Campus 202
- Email: firstgen@salemstate.edu
- Phone: 978-542-4600