Join in celebrating First-Generation College Student Week, November 3–7, 2025, as we shine a spotlight on the First-Gen Network and the experiences that shape so many of our students, faculty, and staff at WVSU.

More than half of WVSU’s undergraduate students identify as first-generation, meaning neither parent has earned a bachelor’s degree. The First-Gen Network, housed in the TRIO Student Support Services Department, works to create visibility, advocacy, and community for these students by fostering a campus culture that celebrates achievement and belonging. Throughout the week, WVSU will host events that share the stories, challenges, and triumphs of the First-Generation experience while connecting students with valuable campus and community resources.

Event Highlights

Monday, November 3

First-Gen College Week Kickoff: We Are First-Gen Proud
University Union |  11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Join the TRIO-SSS First-Gen Network to kick off the celebration. Stop by for a free First-Gen t-shirt, coffee, and snacks while learning about programs designed to support your journey. Participate in the “We Are First-Gen Proud” Banner Signing—a powerful visual display of First-Gen pride that will remain in the University Union all week.

Tuesday, November 4

Discover TRIO: Open House – Supporting First-Gen Success Every Step of the Way
Sullivan Hall East, Second Floor | 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Stop by the TRIO-SSS suite for lunch catered by Qdoba and meet the team behind the First-Gen Network. Learn how TRIO helps first-generation students excel, persist, and graduate. Add your story to the Journey Wall by completing the phrase: “As a First-Gen student, I have learned…”

Wednesday, November 5

First-Gen Strong: Rise Above It Fair
Hosted by Counseling & Wellness Services
University Union Lawn | 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
A day dedicated to wellness, resilience, and community. Explore the many resources that help students rise above barriers.

Thursday, November 6

Breaking Barriers: The Power of Possibility Luncheon
In partnership with the Student Government Association

University Union 128 |  11:45 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Hear inspiring stories of perseverance, leadership, and purpose in a professional panel discussion from distinguished professionals who were once First-Gen students themselves. Their journeys reflect the courage to dream, the will to persist, and the power of education to transform lives.

Friday, November 7

First-Gen Celebration Campus Resource Fair: Empowering Student Success Together
University Union Lobby |  11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Conclude the week with a campus-wide Resource Fair highlighting the offices and services that champion student success. Featuring collaborations with Academic Affairs, TRIO-SSS, Retention and Student Success, Counseling and Wellness, Career Services, Financial Aid, Disability and Accessibility, Student Affairs, and more.  

This week is about more than celebration—it is about visibility, understanding, and connection. Together, we honor the courage it takes to be first generation and the community that ensures no one goes at it alone.  For more information, contact Krystal Tolliver at ktolliver@wvstateu.edu or visit wvstateu.edu/first-gen.