First-Generation Student Support Services announces the 2024 First-Generation Celebration theme and events.
Elon University celebrates the first-generation community throughout October and November; this year’s theme is “Sharing Stories” to highlight Elon’s diverse and dynamic first-generation community.
First-generation students are leaders, scholars, activists and creators. The growth of these individuals contributes to Elon’s shared story. At Elon, a student is a first-generation college student if neither parent/legal guardian has earned a bachelor’s degree. A student is still considered to be a first-generation college student even if a sibling has already completed a four-year college degree.
The first-generation celebration kicks off on Oct. 16 and runs through Nov. 8, concluding on National First-Generation College Student Celebration Day, which honors the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 that expanded access to higher education for young people from historically marginalized backgrounds.
This year’s celebration is intentionally designed to share and reflect on the stories within our community. A day or a week does not give enough time for all the accomplishments happening on and off our campus. If you have any questions, contact the first-generation student support team at firstgen@elon.edu.
To stay up to date, follow the First-Generation Student Support Services on Facebook or Instagram by following @elonfirstgens.
Upcoming Events
Ongoing: Take A Student to Lunch
First-generation students and faculty/staff can be paired to get lunch together throughout the celebration. Folks will get an email from the First-Gen team with more information about how to participate.
Oct. 16 – First Gen & Me – Paint Night in Irazú – 6 p.m.– 7:30 p.m.
Held in collaboration with the Odyssey Scholars program, participants will reflect on their first-generation story through art. The Center for Access and Success will have an open tab for participants.
Oct. 29 – Transformers & Trailblazers with University Archives – Moseley 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
First-generation students are often trailblazers and transformers in their personal lives. We see this theme throughout Elon’s history. Stop by the pop-up exhibit with University Archives and learn about some of the people who have transformed Elon’s history.
Nov. 4 – 15: Book Display at Belk Library
Discover the powerful voices of the first-gen experience! In collaboration with Belk Library, explore a special collection of books that celebrate the journeys and stories of first-generation students. From inspiring characters to real-life narratives, these titles are a must-read!
Nov 7 – International Student Coffee Hour Takeover – Global Commons 3rd Floor – 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Join us as we foster community and celebrate our first-generation and international students with International Student Services. Food and good vibes will be on hand, with a special performance from Melanated Melodies.
Nov 8 – National First-Generation College Celebration Day
First-Gen Student Celebration
The First-Gen Society, Elon’s student organization for first-generation students, is hosting a party. More details to come.
Movie Night with SubCinema – Turner Theater – 8 p.m.
Get ready for a night of fun with SUBCinema! Join us for snacks, good vibes and a special movie night. The movie will spotlight a powerful first-generation story you won’t want to miss. Grab your friends, relax and enjoy a night of inspiration and entertainment.