First-Generation Students

First-Generation College Celebration

First-Generation* College Celebration (FGCC) is celebrated annually on November 8th to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson. This act created federal financial aid programs to fund students’ educations and made key investments in colleges and universities.


November 2026

More information coming soon!

*Southwestern University defines a first-generation college student as neither parents or guardians did not complete a four-year baccalaureate degree as defined by the Higher Education Act of 1965.