Media Advisory: Washburn University Celebrates First-Generation Students with a Week of Activities Through Thursday, Nov. 10

      Topeka, Kan. - Washburn University is celebrating National First-Generation Day with a week of activities from Monday, Nov. 7 to Thursday, Nov. 10. These events are free and open to the Washburn community.

      Washburn considers students first-generation if none of their parents or legal guardians completed a bachelor’s degree (regardless if siblings or other relatives have earned degrees). The university has multiple programs in place to integrate first-generation students and their families into Washburn University and the college experience. Washburn’s work on behalf of first-generation students is recognized nationally.

      On Nov. 8, 2017, the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the Center for First-Generation Student Success launched the inaugural First-Generation College Celebration. Given the continued success of this event, COE and the Center for First-Generation Student Success now partner to make this celebration an annual event. Nov. 8 was selected as the date for the annual National First-Generation College Celebration to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965. The Act was designed to even the playing field for students from minority and low-income backgrounds.

First Generation Coffee Chat 

When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 7 

Where: The Memorial Union at Washburn University

Details: Stop by and meet first-generation students, faculty and staff, and find out where your designated polling place is to vote in the midterm election Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Fuzzy’s Percentage Day 

When: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8

Where: Fuzzy's Taco Shop at 2614 SW 17th St.
 
Details: Support the We Are F1rst organization at Washburn by grabbing food from Fuzzy's Taco Shop for Fuzzy's Percentage Day. Just mention the fundraiser so a percentage of the food purchase goes toward the We Are F1rst organization.

First-Generation Campus Photo 

When: 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8 

Where: Outside of the main entrance of the Memorial Union at Washburn University

Details: Join the first-generation campus photo for “First-Generation Pride” for all students, faculty and staff. There will be free hot chocolate and cookies in the Union Underground following the photo.

We Are F1rst Faculty, Staff and Students Social

When: 4-5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9 

Where: Mabee Library basement at Washburn University

Details: We Are F1rst is having a social for students, faculty and staff in the Mabee Library basement from 4-5 p.m. Free snacks will be provided.

Campus Activities Board and We Are F1rst Trivia Night

When: 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10 

Where: The Memorial Union Café at Washburn University

Details: Bring three to four of your friends to Trivia Night in the Union Café. The event is hosted by We Are F1rst and the Campus Activities Board. Participants have the chance to win prizes.

Students have a chance to enter a drawing for a $1,000 scholarship at these events by bringing their Washburn I.D. There will be three, $1,000 scholarships given out by the end of the week.

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