November 8, 2025: First-Generation College Celebration Day

WHEREAS, in 2017, the Council for Opportunity in Education and FirstGen Forward launched the inaugural First-Generation College Celebration to recognize the achievements of first-generation college students and graduates nationwide; and,

WHEREAS, first-generation college students—those whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year degree—break down generational barriers to create opportunity for their families and communities; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan is home to the thirteenth largest population of such students in the United States—with 49% of its undergraduates being first-generation college students; and,

WHEREAS, education is the cornerstone of economic mobility, and the decision to pursue post-secondary education plays a vital role in both the success of our young people and the competitiveness of our state’s workforce; and,

WHEREAS, First-Generation College Celebration occurs annually on November 8 to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which increased access to higher education for low-income and first-generation college students; and,

WHEREAS, all Michiganders are called upon to celebrate the contributions of the first-generation community and learn about the programs our community organizations, colleges, and employers have created to drive their success;