National First-Generation College Celebration
The University of Washington proudly supports the experiences of first-generation students. For the fourth-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, 2021.
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.
How to Participate
Virtual backgrounds for Students, Faculty & Staff
UW students, faculty & staff on all three campuses who are the first in their families to attend college and supporters are invited to download & display First-Gen Celebration digital backgrounds in virtual meetings and classes to show their pride.
Share on Social Media
Show your first-gen pride or share support for classmates and colleagues on social media using the hashtags #CelebrateFirstGen, #BeTheFirst, #UWFirstGenGrads or #UWFirstGen.
Engagement Opportunities
Various activities and events will take place throughout the campuses for our first-gen communities.
More Highlights
First-Gen Stories
Read more about the experiences of first-generation students, faculty, staff and alumni.
Tri-Campus Support
Many outstanding efforts are underway to support and elevate our first-generation undergraduate and graduate students on all three campuses.
2020 Leadership Message
University Diversity Officer Rickey Hall shared a message with our campus communities about the significance of the celebration.