Join us as we celebrate National First-Generation College Celebration Day (Nov. 8) with a full week of events honoring first-generation college students’ achievements and experiences. Join us in celebrating this incredible group of trailblazers. 

The First-Generation College Celebration (FGCC) is an annual opportunity to raise awareness of the first-generation college student identity by advancing an asset-based, national narrative of these students’ experiences and outcomes. The celebration is meant to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The first celebration was held November 8, 2017 (FirstGen FORWARD, 2024).

At WashU, we’re proud to recognize and celebrate our students who are the first in their families to attend college. Their talent, resilience, and determination make our community stronger and more vibrant. 

Schedule of Events

November 3-8, 2025