Academic Success
First-Generation College Celebration Week
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.
Monday, November 3, 2025
Donuts & Drops on the Deck | 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | SLC Patio | Academic Success, Advising, PJS II Learning Commons
First-Year Students can stop by for a snack and check-in with their Professional Academic Advisor before the 5:00 p.m. deadline to drop a class with record or withdrawal.
Hanging with the Chi’s | 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. | SLC 115 | Kappa Delta Chi
All students are invited to come hang with the Chi’s for a fun study night! Whether you’re knocking out assignments, here for the snacks, or just need to unwind, we’ve got a spot for you. Enjoy HTeaO, snacks, and all the good vibes!
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Sweet Surprise: First-Gen Edition | 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Academic Mall | President’s Office
Students, staff, and faculty can celebrate First-Gen College Celebration Week with an extra special treat. Visit the Captain’s Academy table for FREE celebrate first-gen giveaways!
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
The De-Stress Studio | 2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. | SLC First Floor | Distinctive Collections, Captain’s Academy
Students, staff, and faculty can take a break in their day by participating in variety of de-stressing activities. Snacks and refreshments provided!
First-Gen Community Mixer | 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. | SLC Patio | LatinXcel
Come connect with fellow first-gen students, faculty, staff, and alumni as they share their stories, challenges, and successes! Hear real experiences, get helpful advice, and learn how to make the most of your college journey. This is a great chance to find inspiration, ask questions, and build community. Snacks and refreshments provided!
Thursday, November 6, 2025
First Thursday Reception | Invitation Only | Academic Affairs
During this monthly event, faculty and staff are invited to learn about ongoing research, projects, and publications. This month’s presenters include Katy Ross, Professor of Spanish, Steve Alexander, Professor of Physics, and first-generation faculty members Bryan Kauma, Assistant Professor of History, and Adriana Ponce, Assistant Professor of Sociology.
Friday, November 7, 2025
First-Gen Friday at the Cove | 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. | The Cove | Student Activities, Alpha Alpha Alpha
Students, staff, and faculty can unwind with live music from Connor Christian while crafting or playing a variety of games with members of the SU Alpha Alpha Alpha chapter. Plus, the first 20 student attendees receive a FREE meal of their choice from The Cove!
Men on Boats | 7:30 p.m. | Jones Theatre | Theatre Department
Catch a great show and support first-generation student cast members Isabella Fernandez ’27, Mia Perez ’27, and Daniella Stone ’28! Visit the Box Office for tickets.
Saturday, November 8, 2025
Celebrating First-Gen Success | Invitation Only | Upward Bound
Upward Bound Scholars reflect on and share their own first-gen journey. Featuring guest speakers Irene Ramirez ’28 and Amalia Merino, Hispanic Academic Success Coordinator!
Men on Boats | 7:30 p.m. | Jones Theatre | Theatre Department
Catch a great show and support first-generation student cast members Isabella Fernandez ’27, Mia Perez ’27, and Daniella Stone ’28! Visit the Box Office for tickets.
*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.