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Sonoma State University (SSU) hosted its 2025 First-Generation College Celebration Nov. 3-7, recognizing the leadership, resilience, and achievements of its first-generation students. The week brought together students, faculty, staff, and campus partners for a series of events designed to affirm identity, strengthen community, and reaffirm the university’s long-term commitment to first-gen student success.
Approximately 46 percent of SSU students identify as first-generation, meaning neither of their parents hold a baccalaureate degree. At Sonoma State, that identity is recognized as a source of strength, reflecting determination, adaptability, cultural wealth, and a deep commitment to family and community.
The celebration began on Nov. 3 with the First-Gen Community Celebration. The event featured remarks from Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Gerald Jones, who highlighted the university’s commitment to equity, access, and belonging. The kickoff created a visible and affirming space for the Seawolf community to connect, celebrate their journeys, and proudly claim their first-generation identity.
Programming throughout the week addressed the academic, personal, and professional dimensions of student success. On Nov. 4, “Thrive First: Self-Care for First-Gens” emphasized wellness as a critical component of achievement. On Nov. 5, First-Gen Movie Night offered connection through storytelling and shared experience. The celebration concluded on Nov. 7 with the First-Gen Art Showcase, where students and staff expressed their identities and experiences through creative work, reinforcing that first-generation pride extends beyond the classroom.
A highlight of the week was the Nov. 6 panel, “First-Gen to Professional: Navigating the Next Chapter.” First-generation professionals shared insights about transitioning from college to career, discussing leadership development, mentorship, and navigating professional environments. The panel underscored that the skills first-generation students cultivate: resilience, problem-solving, persistence, and community-oriented leadership, are powerful assets in the workforce.
For many students, the celebration affirmed both personal growth and future possibilities. Mya Jones, a senior majoring in communication studies, shared:
“To me, being a first-generation student means discovering strengths within yourself that you didn’t know you had and always finding a way to succeed by finding support despite barriers that may be in place. Finding my voice has been a significant part of my journey as a first-gen student and has led me to many opportunities!”
Her reflection captures the spirit of the week: first-generation students are not defined by obstacles, but by the strengths they develop and the opportunities they create.
Sonoma State University is grateful for TIAA and the Strada Education Foundation’s generous sponsorship of the First-Generation College Celebration. The #CelebrateFirstGen grant equipped us with the resources to move #FirstGenForward by raising awareness of first-gen college students’ identities, strengths, and experiences.
While First-Gen College Celebration Week shines a spotlight on student identity and achievement, SSU’s commitment extends year-round through advising, academic support, leadership development, and cross-campus partnerships designed to ensure first-generation students thrive from enrollment through graduation and beyond.
At Sonoma State University, first-generation students are shaping the institution’s present and future, and the university remains committed to ensuring they continue to lead, graduate, and succeed long after the celebration concludes.
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