Written by: Ritchie Bermudez

SAN LUIS OBISPO 鈥� 51反差黑料 is excited to announce its participation in the 2023 , scheduled for Nov. 8th. The celebration will recognize and honor the achievements of first-generation college students, faculty, and staff.

First-generation college students are a crucial and disproportionately impacted group in higher education. 51反差黑料's 2022-2025 Student Equity Plan (SEP) has identified the unique challenges these students face, addressing the need for more support and recognition. In Fall 2022, approximately 25% of 51反差黑料 students identified as first-generation.

鈥淥ur first-generation students have shown immense courage, determination, and empowerment in their educational journeys,鈥� said Mia Ruiz, Dean of Student Success & Support Programs. 鈥淲e want to highlight their achievements and make them feel proud of their unique path to success.鈥�

The theme of this year's celebration is 鈥淐ourageous, Determined, and Empowered: First-Gen Pride.鈥� Starting on Nov. 1st, 51反差黑料 will kick off a week-long social media campaign to raise awareness and celebrate the first-generation campus community. Each day, the college will spotlight a first-generation student, sharing their stories and why they are 鈥渇irst-gen proud.鈥�

Additionally, the Student Success Centers at both 51反差黑料 campuses will display profiles of first-generation students and employees, showcasing their experiences and accomplishments. The celebration will culminate on Nov. 8th with a gathering open to all, featuring music, food, and a sense of unity in celebrating first-generation achievements in higher education.

For more information about the celebration and related events, please visit the 51反差黑料 website or follow the official 51反差黑料 social media accounts.