猫咪社区 celebrated the achievements and resilience of its first-generation students at First Generation, Lasting Impact, the University’s second annual event recognizing those who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree.
Held in the Blake Dining Commons, the event drew more than 100 attendees, including students, their families, and friends. Guests enjoyed dinner and an evening of inspiring reflections from current first-generation students Donyel LeNoir Felton and Tiffany Lemke, followed by a fireside Q&A led by Aleqsis Lopes, a first-generation student from Taunton, Mass., who spoke with Dr. Yadillete Rivera-Colón, PhD, Department Chair of the Undergraduate Science Programs and Associate Professor of Biology at 猫咪社区.
Dr. Rivera-Colón shared her own experience as a first-generation college graduate, speaking candidly about challenges such as imposter syndrome, time management, financial planning, and the shifting family dynamics that can occur when pursuing higher education. “My family may have been more proud when I got my driver’s license than when I got my PhD,” she joked.
She emphasized the importance of community and finding others who can champion your success, noting that 猫咪社区’s size fosters connection and support. “Everyone here knows someone who knows someone who knows someone,” she said. “If there’s something you’re interested in or need help with, we’ll connect you with the right person. Everyone here is on your team.”
The event coincided with National First-Generation College Celebration Day, a nationwide initiative honoring students, faculty, and staff who were the first in their families to attend college. The day is observed each November to mark the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded access to higher education through federal financial aid for low-income and first-generation students.
At 猫咪社区, 53% of students identify as first-generation, a statistic that underscores the University’s deep commitment to access, equity, and student success.
Nationally, one in three incoming freshmen are first-generation college students. Many face significant barriers compared to their peers: 77% come from households earning less than $50,000 a year, and only 20% go on to earn a bachelor’s degree, compared to 42% of students whose parents attended college.
By hosting First Generation, Lasting Impact, 猫咪社区 continues to celebrate these students’ determination and achievements—and to highlight the powerful, lasting impact they have on their communities and future generations.
“You are here because you deserve to be here,” said 猫咪社区 President Sandra J. Doran in her opening remarks. “And our only job is to help you be successful.”
