The University of Scranton's First-Generation College Celebration
November 8
2020 First-Generation College Celebration
The University of Scranton’s THR1VE program plans to participate in the First-Generation College Celebration with several in-person and virtual events leading up to November 8th. Current plans include a panel of first-generation alumni with students, an event focusing on stress management and resilience for upcoming finals, celebratory newsletter focusing on first-generation accomplishments, and recruitment of students to join a proposed student organization and mentoring program. Our celebration will culminate with a social media celebration using the hashtag #FirstgenRoyal where students will be able to celebrate the many accomplishments of first-generation University of Scranton community members.
2019 First-Generation College Celebration
The celebration was organized by the University’s THR1VE Program, which launched in July 2019 to celebrate and support Scranton students whose parents have not completed a four-year college degree.
The event included an ongoing networking opportunity for first-generation students to connect with first-generation alumni mentors in various professions. The celebration also included trivia about famous first-gen students and the THR1VE program, a photo booth and social media campaign, a hot chocolate bar, and a selection of fall foods.
“As the first member of the Pilarz family to graduate from college, I know firsthand the ways that graduation can be particularly life-changing for students, their families, and future generations,” said Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., president, in a letter to the University community about the celebration. “Since our founding as St. Thomas College, educating and forming those who are the first in their families to earn a college degree has been and will continue to be a special part of our mission.”
The THR1VE program was developed from a needs assessment survey and other input from first-generation students attending the University. Based on this information, the THR1VE program has focused on three primary areas of support: financial wellness, academic planning, and career development. At the University, 23 percent of the undergraduate population identifies as first-generation.
