November 8 is National First Gen College Celebration Day, and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is joining campuses across the country to recognize first-generation students.

As a former first gen college student myself, I’m especially proud to lead our university because we open our doors and our arms to welcome and support students facing the challenges of being the first in their family to attend college.

If you have a Nebraska first gen pin, I encourage you to wear it with pride. For those who do not identify as first gen but would like to show support, you can pick up an “I Support First Gen” pin from November 6 to November 9 at the following locations:

• First-Year Experience and Transition Programs in Love Library South 127
• Office of Academic Support and Intercultural Services (Front Desk) in the Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center
• C.Y. Thompson Library (Front Desk)

From 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 8, a First Gen College Celebration Day booth at the Nebraska Union will have First Gen T-shirts and other items available, a postcard station where students can write parents/family/friends thanking them for supporting them in their education, and the Share Your First Gen Story banner students can sign.

Thank you to the following units for their work in supporting first gen students and the outreach this week: First-Year Experience & Transition Programs, University Housing, Learning Communities, First Generation Nebraska (FGN), UNL First Generation Student Organization and the Office of Academic Success and Intercultural Services.