North Central Missouri College floated towards the future in honor of National First-Generation College Celebration Day, recognizing students who are the first in their families to attend college. The event was held in Geyer Hall and was hosted by the First Gen Club and TRIO Student Support Services (SSS).
Students, staff, and faculty stopped by to enjoy root beer floats, connect with others, and celebrate what it means to be first-generation. Approximately 55 people attended the event on November 7th, a day earlier than the national celebration on November 8th.
“It’s awesome to see students, staff, and faculty come out to support First-Gen students. It really means a lot to us,” said Jessika Kennedy, Vice-President of the First-Gen club.
The celebration was part of a nationwide effort to highlight the achievements and experiences of first-generation college students. November 8th marks the anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded access to higher education for first-generation and low-income students through financial aid and support programs.
“First-gen students are such a big part of what makes NCMC special. Through SSS and the First Gen Club, we get to celebrate their hard work, cheer them on, and help them build the confidence to keep going,” shared Angela Heins, SSS Assistant Director and First-Gen Club staff advisor.
The NCMC First Gen Club and SSS program provide community, resources, and support to help students thrive academically and personally.
To learn more about SSS, visit ncmissouri.edu/sss. To learn more about the First Gen Club, visit us on Facebook @NCMCFirstGen.
Student Support Services is 100% funded by a grant of $306,511 per year from the U.S. Department of Education.