image credit: We are first generation (UW Tacoma), College of Arts & Sciences First-Generation Storytelling Celebration, Office of Minority Affairs and Diversity
The University of Washington proudly supports the experiences of first-generation students. For the sixth-straight year, the UW Bothell, Seattle and Tacoma campuses are joining colleges and universities throughout the nation to participate in the National First-Generation College Celebration on November 8, 2025.
Led by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the NASPA Center for First-Generation Student Success, the day is intended to celebrate the success and presence of first-generation college students, faculty and staff on campuses across the country.
FAQ
National first-generation day is a call to celebrate students, faculty and staff who are the first in their family to pursue a four-year undergraduate degree in the United States. November 8 was identified as the date for the annual National First-Generation College Celebration to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965.
- An individual, neither of whose parents completed a baccalaureate degree.
- An individual who, prior to the age of 18, regularly resided with and received support from only one parent and whose supporting parent did not complete a baccalaureate degree.
- An individual who, prior to the age of 18, did not regularly reside with or receive support from a natural or adoptive parent.
- If your parent(s) and/or guardian(s) attended college but do not have a bachelor’s degree (i.e., did not graduate), you are first-generation.
Check out the First Gen Tri Campus Resource Page!
Events & Activities
Various activities and events will take place throughout the campuses for our first-gen communities.
2025 Leadership Message
University Diversity Officer Rickey Hall shared a message with our campus communities about the significance of the celebration.
Featured Stories
First gen to first gen advice
Faculty, staff and students from UW Bothell share advice for first generation students in this video.
OMA&D staff gives first gen advice
Staff from the University of Washington Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity send short messages of encouragement to first-generation college students in this video.
Honoring the College of Arts & Sciences First Generation Community
Honoring first-generation students who are central to the life and richness of the College of Arts & Sciences community.
We Are First Generation
UW Tacoma celebrates stories of first generation students, faculty, and staff, highlighting their diverse experiences and unique strengths they each bring to the community.
Read More Stories
Read a collection of stories from across the UW community about what it means to be “the first.”