Celebrate First-Gen

Annually, November 8 marks the anniversary of the signing of the 1965 Higher Education Act, which helped millions of disadvantaged students become the first members of their families to earn college degrees. As such, November 8 is the day that we celebrate First-Generation College students both at Central Michigan University and across the country.

Throughout the United States, approximately 33% of all college students are considered first-generation. Here at CMU, 20% of our student body identifies as first-generation. It takes determination, dedication, and perseverance to be the first. We are dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of faculty, staff, students, and alumni who are among the first to graduate in their families.

Planning is underway for the 2023 Celebrate First-Gen observance. We will have a week full of activities from November 6 through November 10, 2023.