WCSU celebrates First-Generation students with ‘I’m First’ event

Western Connecticut State University will host the fourth annual “I’m First” celebration of First-Generation college students, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 7, at the Higgins Hall Patio on the university’s Midtown campus, 181 White St. in Danbury. During the event, WCSU will join in celebration with other colleges across the nation that will engage in a number of different activities, highlighting First-Generation students on campus.

Students, faculty, staff, administrators and alumni will have the opportunity to share their personal stories as First-Generation college students and the impact that experience has had on their lives.

The concept of a “First-Generation” student was introduced into federal policy by the passage of Higher Education Amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965. As a result of this amendment, colleges and universities have the opportunity to celebrate those who have made huge strides in this country to be the first in their family to attend college.

Pre-Collegiate & Access Programs at WCSU include Danbury Public Schools Collaborative, Upward Bound, ConnCAP, Dual-Enrollment Pipelines, Excel, EA²P (Educational Achievement and Access Program and PASS (Promoting Academically Successful Students). The Collaborative/Upward Bound Program is a year-round, college preparatory program serving approximately 100 Danbury High School students from grades 9 through 12. The Excel Program is a middle school (Broadview, Rogers Park and Westside Academy) feeder program for the Danbury Public Schools Collaborative/Upward Bound Program, currently serving 60 students in grades 7 and 8, while the WCSU EA²P Program is a year-round, academic enhancement program serving underprivileged college students.

This event will feature “I’M FIRST” branded items for First-Generation attendees. The celebration is free and the public is invited. Light snacks and beverages will be offered.  

For more information, contact Rob Pote at poter@wcsu.edu or WCSU Public Relations at pr@wcsu.edu.