Upcoming Events

National First-Generation Celebration Week

On November 8, colleges and universities across the country recognize first-generation students, as well as faculty and staff who were first-generation. This date also commemorates the day Congress approved the Higher Education Act (HEA) in 1965. The HEA was intended to ensure equal opportunities for underprivileged students to attend college by providing federal grants and loans to help finance the cost of a college education. This legislation made critical investments in institutions and funded programs to increase the access, retention, and graduation of first-generation, low-income students.

If you take photos throughout the celebration week, please post photos on social media with the hashtag #umfirstgen and tag @uofmfirstgen and we will repost them! 

This year’s theme is First to Roar! 

For more information, contact firstgen@memphis.edu.

Tie it Tuesday

Tuesday, November 7, 2023     |     10 AM - 2 PM     |     UC Atrium

Join the Office of First-Generation Student Success and EMOC as we work together to learn and teach how to tie a tie!  Ties are donated by campus and community partners. If you are interested in donating some professional ties before the event please email us at firstgen@memphis.edu or at firstscholars@memphis.edu. You can also drop off tie donations to Mitchell 301 Monday through Friday from 9 AM – 4 PM.

Sapphire Awards

Wednesday, November 8, 2023     |     6 PM - 9 PM     |     UC Ballrooms

Recognizing and celebrating the success of students in First Scholars, the Office of First-Gen Student Success, Opportunity Scholars, and TRIOs.

RSVP required; event capped at 400 attendees. 

First Scholars Game Night

Thursday, November 9, 2023     |     6 PM - 9 PM     |     UC Bluff

Enjoy a relaxing night of 90’s themed video games and a variety of board games with your fellow first-generation students. Brought to you by our very own First Scholar Peer Mentors!

Faculty and Staff Swag Give-Away

Friday, November 11, 2023     |     9 AM - 1 PM     |     Mitchell Hall Patio

Are you a First-generation Faculty or staff member? Please fill out the First-Gen Champions form to get your free swag!