Southern Illinois University Carbondale honored a remarkable part of its community in November with a weeklong celebration dedicated to first-generation college students. From Nov. 5–13, 2025, the university hosted a series of events recognizing and uplifting these trailblazers who were the first in their families to earn a bachelor’s degree. With about two in every five Salukis identifying as first-generation, the celebration highlighted the determination, resilience and pride that defined their journeys.
“National First-Generation College Celebration is a powerful reminder that education changes lives and that every student’s journey matters,” said Lanel Love, assistant dean of students and director of the First Saluki Center. A double alumna of SIU and a first-generation graduate herself, Love emphasized the importance of celebrating these students’ achievements. “We were proud to celebrate the strength and determination of first-generation students who continued to pave the way for future Salukis,” she said.
The First Saluki Center, a collaborative initiative of Student Affairs and Academic Affairs, provided vital resources, mentoring and advocacy for first-generation students. The celebration aligned with National First-Generation College Celebration Day on Nov. 8, which honored the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, legislation that opened doors to higher education for first-generation and low-income students. SIU expanded this recognition into a weeklong series of programs, activities and opportunities to connect and grow.
Celebration events began Nov. 5, featuring both campuswide and student-focused gatherings. The week kicked off with “Stress Management Skills,” a Wellness Wednesday workshop. This interactive session taught relaxation strategies and techniques to help manage everyday stress, an important skill for students balancing academic and personal responsibilities.
Later that afternoon, the Black Affairs Council and Hispanic Latino Student Council hosted “Breaking Barriers: First Gen Success Series, Financial Literacy and Imposter Syndrome.” This empowering workshop aimed to build financial confidence and address the internal challenges that first-generation students often faced.
On Nov. 6, the focus turned to storytelling and empowerment with “Stories of Resilience,” a panel presentation. Students and alumni shared personal accounts of perseverance and triumph, offering encouragement to peers navigating their own first-generation experiences.
The week’s festivities continued with a fun and relaxing twist on Nov. 8 with a “Dive-In Movie.” Participants floated or swam in the Olympic-sized pool while enjoying the film “Something in the Water.” The event was open to all students, recreation center members and guests with a day pass.
Through these engaging and inspiring events, SIU celebrated the power of education, the courage to lead and the community that sustained its first-generation Salukis, reminding everyone that success began with a single step forward.
You can learn more about Southern Illinois University Carbondale programs here. View their Instagram for more photos and event video.
