First-generation College Celebration | FirstGen Forward

Since the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and FirstGen Forward (FGF, formerly the Center for First‑Generation Student Success) hosted the inaugural celebration in 2017, colleges and universities, corporations, government leaders, nonprofits, and K–12 schools nationwide have united each year to uplift and honor the first‑generation community on and around November 8. In 2026, we proudly mark the 10th First‑Generation College Celebration of collective action, growing visibility, and unwavering commitment to first‑gen students and their families.

FGCC is dedicated not only to celebrating first‑generation students’ contributions to their communities but also to driving systemic social change by dismantling barriers to first‑generation student success. Through this intentional advocacy focus, FGCC engages key constituencies in carrying forward and strengthening the unfinished work of the Higher Education Act (HEA).

Why Celebrate on November 8?

FGCC is celebrated annually on November 8 to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act (“HEA”) of 1965 by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson. This act created federal financial aid programs to fund students’ educations and made key investments in colleges and universities. Many of the HEA’s programs, particularly the Federal TRIO programs, promote postsecondary access, retention, and completion for today’s limited-income, first-generation college students.

Serve as a Reviewer

FirstGen Forward (FGF) and the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) are pleased to accept volunteers to review #CelebrateFirstGen grants! The volunteer reviewer application will close at 12:00 pm, noon PT on Friday, July 24, 2026.

Reviewers can anticipate reviewing between 10 and 15 applications, amounting to between two to three hours of work. The review period will be July 29, 2026 until 11:59pm PT on Monday, August 10, 2026.

Previous Celebration Blogs

Explore inspiring examples written by the host of previous events showcase how communities across the country have embraced the spirit of #CelebrateFirstGen, through innovative programming, student spotlights, and meaningful campus traditions. From event recaps to firsthand reflections, these stories demonstrate the power of recognition, support, and pride in the first-generation student experience.

First-Generation College Celebration Day

Get Your Ducks in a Row with TRIO!

Apr 14, 2026

First-Generation College Celebration Day

101 Ways to #CelebrateFirstGen on November 8th

Apr 12, 2026

First-Generation College Celebration Day

Community College of Aurora Hosts First Gen Celebration

Apr 10, 2026