by Christi Mathis
CARBONDALE, Ill. — About two of every five Southern Illinois University Carbondale students are first generation, meaning they are the first in their immediate family to earn a bachelor’s degree, and SIU will celebrate them Nov. 6-8 with a variety of special activities.
“Celebrating first-generation college students is essential for recognizing their unique challenges and achievements,” said Lanel Love, a double alumna of SIU who serves as the university’s assistant dean of students and director of the center. “As a first-gen graduate myself, I recognize this celebration as a time to reflect personal and communal pride and empowerment and a commitment to paving the way for future generations. For the college community, it’s a time to enhance diversity and inclusivity and support enriching the educational environment for all students.”
First Saluki Center, a campuswide initiative of Student Affairs and the Dean of Students, in conjunction with Academic Affairs, connects first-generation students with the resources and assistance they need to succeed. National First-Generation Celebration Day, which SIU has expanded to a three-day happening, is on Nov. 8 in recognition of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded college opportunities for first-generation and low-income students.
“As a first-generation student, I carry the weight of my family’s hopes and dreams on my shoulders, knowing that I am paving the way for future generations,” said Ashanti Matthews, a senior psychology major from Aurora, Illinois. “Every step I take in my education feels like a testament of resilience, honoring not only myself, but those who came before me. I am happy to have the opportunity to participate in the first-generation celebration.”
Kick-off is Nov. 6
The commemoration features several public events, open to everyone, as well as some activities exclusively for students.
“Stress Management” will be the focus of the Wellness Wednesday tabling event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 6 at the north entrance of Morris Library. Participants will learn techniques to help them relax and manage stress to enhance their everyday lives.
Artificial intelligence empowerment
As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent, a Nov. 7 workshop at the John C. Guyon Auditorium in Morris Library explores the vast potential for the technology. This noon workshop is open to everyone, although participants are asked to sign up online for planning purposes. Iraklis Anagnostopoulos, associate professor from the School of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, will lead the interactive session, highlighting AI-driven resources, discuss real-life examples of AI in life, explore how AI can assist with everything from career exploration to wellness support to navigating financial challenges and more. Refreshments will follow.
Celebration, movie and more slated
The big day is Nov. 8, and several activities are planned. The First-Gen College Celebration will be happening at the north entrance of the Student Cener from 10 a.m. to noon, featuring a photo booth, giveaways, grab-and-go snacks and the chance to learn more about the First Saluki Center. Everyone is welcome.
First Gen Celebration Desserts, noon to 2 p.m. in Lentz Hall, Dining Room 1, is open to anyone with a meal plan or who purchases a meal at the door to join in a fun time.
Enjoy a “Movie in the Pool” at 8 p.m. in the Student Recreation Center. Participants can enjoy “Meg 2: The Trench,” known in some areas as “Shark 2,” while they take a dip in Shea Natatorium’s Olympic-sized pool. All students, along with anyone with a rec center membership or who purchases a pass, are welcome.
More details
“I am very happy to be part of this celebration highlighting first-generation students, a diverse and powerful population at SIU,” said Tatiana Castillo Burgos, a social work master’s student from Colombia who serves as a graduate assistant in the First Saluki Center. “It’s so inspiring to see first-generation students taking on the challenge of running a marathon to go to college. Not only are they carrying their academic load, but as the first in their families to navigate the exciting journey of being a student, they’re also learning how to handle the emotional and financial challenges that come with it. The best part is that they have all the skills to do it, and the First Saluki Center is ready to support them and help it feel easier. I admire their courage and their winning spirit. Being a first gen is about taking the light to walk on an unknown path and learn to navigate successfully. They are not only building their own futures, but they are also showing future generations that changes and success are possible.”
For more information about any of the events, visit the website or contact the First Saluki Center at 618-453-6870 or by emailing lanel.love@siu.edu.
Sponsors of First-Generation College Week include First Saluki Center, University Housing, Recreational Sports and Services, Student Programming Council, the Center for International Education, Student Health Services, School of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, the Career Development Center and Morris Library.