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The event, ‘First-Gen Votes,’ was the first of five events that are being held between now and November 8. The events are focused on a central theme, Champions of Change: First-Gen Identity and Activism Week, all aimed at celebrating those who are the first in their families to attend college, while also creating a sense of unity and understanding.

The events lead up to First-Gen College Celebration Day, which is celebrated annually on November 8 at different institutions across the country.Melissa Raucci, Assistant Director for College Programs at the David T. Kearns Center was part of the team that helped coordinate the different events and is excited to celebrate first-gen pride with the first-gen campus community. “As a first-generation college student myself, the ideal of celebrating our first-gen identity not just here at the UR but on a national level, brings me so much joy! I am so excited to work collaboratively with our campus partners and host events that are not just celebrating the awesomeness of our first-gen students, but providing opportunities for social, civic, and academic enrichment” Raucci says.

The planning of each event has been a collaborative effort between several different campus groups including the David T. Kearns Center for Leadership and Diversity, the Gwen M. Greene Center, the First-Generation Students and Families Committee, Alumni Relations & Constituent Engagement’s First-Generation Network, the Center for Community Engagement, the Office of Minority Student Affairs and University Health Services. “Driven by a mission to broaden our reach to first-generation students, staff, faculty, and alumni, a robust collaboration between multiple offices has enabled us to design and implement events that support, engage, and celebrate our first-generation community” says Director of the Kearns Center, Dr. Miguel Baique. “It’s been a pleasure working with colleagues across the university to ensure our first-generation community is not only recognized but also integral to the ongoing dialogue about student success and experience. My sincere thanks to all the thought partners and advocates who helped bring First-Gen Fall to life. I look forward to strengthening our coalition further.”

First-Gen Fall will wrap up with a culminating event on Friday, November 8 with remarks from Dr. Ruben E. Canedo, Director of Strategic Equity Initiatives at the University of California, Berkeley. “While I am excited about every single event happening during First-Gen Fall, I am most excited about welcoming Dr. Ruben E. Canedo to campus for his talk, ‘Generative Change: Deepening the roots of healing, transformative justice, and joy in community’” says Raucci. “I was able to attend a talk given by Dr. Canedo in late April and I am so excited for him to bring his unique perspective and energy to our First-Gen Fall lineup.” A reception will follow Dr. Canedo’s remarks, giving students a chance to mingle, grab some food and pick up some first-gen proud swag! Students will also have the opportunity to be entered into a raffle if they sign in and attend First-Gen Fall events. Winners will be announced at the event on Friday, November 8.

Are you a champion of change? Share your first-gen stories with us using the hashtags #FirstGenProud #CelebrateFirstGen.

Full List of Events

Thursday, October 24

Let’s ROC the Vote! Get help with registering to vote, checking to make sure you are registered, or finding your polling location! We want to make sure you have all the tools necessary to make your voice heard on Election Day, November 5th!

Kearns Center Classroom
4-162 Dewey Hall

Noon – 2 p.m.

Wednesday, October 30

Join us for "Campus to Career: How Faculty and Alumni Can Guide Your Professional Journey," a collaborative event hosted by the David T. Kearns Center for Leadership and Diversity, the Greene Center for Career Education and Connections, and Alumni Engagement's Affinity Networks. This event offers students a unique opportunity to connect with faculty and alumni who will share insights, experiences, and strategies to help navigate the transition from campus life to a successful career. Whether you're exploring potential career paths or seeking mentorship, this event is designed to empower you with the guidance and support you need to thrive professionally. Please .

Feldman Ballroom, Douglass Commons
5:30 – 7 p.m.

Monday, November 4

Feeling stressed? Stop by the Goergen Athletic Center and meet therapy dogs! Peer Health Advocates will also be there with giveaways such as lavender sachets, stress balls, and more. Looking for something more active? Take the Power Vinyasa class with Chris from 6-7 p.m. in the GAC! Or stop by Destress Fest in the Welles-Brown Room from 7-8:30 p.m.

Goergen Athletic Center
6 - 7:15 p.m.
Welles Brown Room, Rush Rhees Library
7 – 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, November 7

The ÂÒÂ×Ç¿¼é’s Upward Bound Program is hosting the 8th Annual HEOP College Fair. High school students will have the chance to meet with HEOP and EOP representatives from a diverse array of institutions, learn about various programs, and gather valuable information. Students will also engage in a panel discussion with current HEOP students. This event is being hosted by the David T. Kearns Center for Leadership and Diversity and the Office of Minority Student Affairs.

Feldman Ballroom, Douglass Commons
10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Friday, November 8

Celebrate the achievements and resilience of first-generation students and the wider first-generation community at our "First-Generation Day of Celebration." This special event, featuring a keynote address by Ruben Canedo, honors the journey and accomplishments of first-gen students. Hosted in collaboration with the David T. Kearns Center for Leadership and Diversity, the First-Generation Student and Families Committee, and Alumni Relations & Constituent Engagement’s First-Generation Network, this day is dedicated to acknowledging the unique experiences of first-gen students and fostering a sense of pride and community. Join us in celebrating your success!

Hawkins Carlson
Rush Rhees Library
2 – 4 p.m.