Dear UW community,
First-generation college students, faculty, and staff bring immense value to the University of Washington (UW), and we are deeply grateful that they chose to be here. On November 8, we will join the Council for Opportunity in Education, FirstGen Forward and institutions across the country to celebrate National First-Generation College Celebration Day. This date marks the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded access to higher education for countless students, including first-generation pioneers.
As a first-generation college graduate, college transformed not only my own life but also the lives of my immediate family, whether they pursued college themselves or not. I am proud to have assisted in opening doors to opportunities and experiences that have uplifted all of us. We’ve seen many powerful examples of first-generation students inspiring older siblings, or even parents, to pursue higher education. This is the ripple effect of education. It touches generations and builds brighter futures.
As the University Diversity Officer, I am keeping first-generation students in mind as I implement my priorities for the 2026-27 academic year: One is to advance education and engagement efforts to help our UW community better understand the people and places where we work, study and live. Another is to create more opportunities for community building and connection.
Over the next two weeks we are hosting events and activities on each of our campuses. I look forward to celebrating with you throughout this time. This celebration is a powerful moment to share first-generation stories. By telling them, we challenge the misconception that higher education is out of reach for first-generation students, and we help others find their path.
The first-generation journey to UW reflects resilience, determination, and strength. Together, we will continue to uplift and celebrate every first-generation student so that all have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Through mentorship, advocacy and collective action, we can ensure that the UW remains accessible to all who seek the opportunity.
In Community,
Rickey Hall
University of Washington
University Diversity Officer