The University of Maine at Presque Isle hosted its first-ever First-Generation College Celebration Day on Thursday, Nov. 8 in the Campus Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate and recognize first generation students on campus, throughout the state, and across the country. UMPI’s First Gen Day shone a light on the number of first generation students active on the UMPI campus and showcased to other first generation students that they are not alone.
First generation students are defined as students whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) have not completed a Bachelor’s degree. Organization for the event at UMPI to celebrate these students was led by Mary Kate Barbosa, UMPI Director of Student Support Services.
Barbosa said that, throughout the event, many activities were available. Popcorn and cotton candy were served. Starbucks in the Owl’s Nest had $2 medium coffees available for purchase. Those who attended First Gen Day activities had the opportunity to make owl snow globes, enjoy a coloring station, and get their own first gen buttons. In addition to celebrating first generation students, there was also a birthday cake for the 50th Anniversary of Student Support Services.
As a special component to the festivities, the Owls of UMPI Instagram page featured a first generation “takeover”, posting stories and photos of students who are first generation college students.
The date of First Gen Day—Nov. 8—marked the 53rd anniversary of the signing of the 1965 Higher Education Act (HEA), which has helped millions of poor students become the first members of their families to earn college degrees. On Nov. 8, college campuses around the nation were asked to hold celebrations, discussions, rallies, and more to recognize first generation students. About 70% of UMPI students are either first generation, disabled, or are income eligible. First Gen Day gave UMPI an opportunity to share stories and start a conversation with students and faculty who fall within that 70%. The campus also had a chance to honor UMPI’s faculty and staff who come from a first generation background.
For more information about First Gen Day, please contact Mary Kate Barbosa at mary.barbosa@maine.edu or 207-768-9613.
