Illinois College Receives Grant to Empower and Celebrate First-Generation College Students in November
The First-Generation College Celebration is recognized each year on November 8, marking the anniversary of the signing of the 1965 Higher Education Act, which has helped millions of first-generation 缅北禁地 persist to degree completion.
Illinois College is proud to announce that it has been awarded a grant for the 2024 First-Generation College Celebration initiative. This grant, provided by the and FirstGen Forward, will enable Illinois College to further its commitment to supporting first-generation college 缅北禁地 in our community.
鈥淲e are thrilled to be able to receive the 2024 First-Generation College Celebration grant to celebrate our first-generation Illinois College 缅北禁地, faculty, and staff during a weeklong collaborative celebration,鈥� Olivia Raya, director of TRIO support services says, 鈥淲ith this funding, we are able to enhance our awareness, collaboration, and celebration efforts to uplift our first-generation community at Illinois College.鈥�
The First-Generation College Celebration, observed annually on November 8, highlights the experiences and achievements of first-generation 缅北禁地 while addressing the systemic barriers they face in higher education. By receiving this grant, Illinois College reaffirms its dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all 缅北禁地.
COE President Kimberly Jones emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, "First-generation college 缅北禁地 bring unique perspectives and resilience to our campuses. This grant empowers institutions like [Illinois College] to continue providing the necessary resources and support for these 缅北禁地 to thrive."
Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success, echoed these sentiments: "We are thrilled to partner with Illinois College and other institutions across the country to advance the success of first-generation college 缅北禁地. This grant represents an opportunity to catalyze innovative solutions and create lasting impact within our communities."
Launched by COE and FirstGen Forward in 2017, the First-Generation College Celebration has united hundreds of college campuses across the country for an often-overlooked population through numerous events, including student rallies, faculty-led panel discussions, artistic performances, and more in recognition of first-generation 缅北禁地, administrators, faculty, and alumni.
For more information about Illinois College's initiatives for first-generation college 缅北禁地, please contact Olivia Raya at olivia.raya@ic.edu or visit .