We are pleased to participate in the National First-Generation College Celebration. Join us for events during the week of November 3-8, 2025 to learn more about first-generation college student experiences and celebrate their achievements at St. Olaf.
Monday, November 3
Share First-Gen Stories via Social Media #CelebrateFirstGen
Complete the survey to share reflections of what it means to you to be a first-generation college student. First 50 entries will receive an I’m First t-shirt! (Students, faculty, and staff are welcome to participate.) Wear your t-shirt throughout the week to show you are first-gen proud!
Tuesday, November 4
11:10-11:40am
First-Gen Chapel Speakers – Kasandra Padilla, Tyson Pope and Dr. Norman Lee. Boe Chapel or via live stream. Check out the First-Gen display between Boe and Buntrock!
(Click here to view past talks from First-Gen students, faculty and staff at St. Olaf College).
4:00pm-5:00pm
Piper Center Open House – TOH 270
Stop by anytime to enjoy refreshments and conversation with peers, Piper Center coaches, and peer advisors about your interests, strengths, and career questions!
Wednesday, November 5
5:30pm-6:45pm (Van shuttle from Buntrock to Carleton from 4:45-5:15pm and return after)
First-Gen Alumni Panel at Carleton College
Spots are limited! Register (RSVP) today! Join us at Carleton for dinner and an alumni panel as they discuss their experiences as a first-gen college student, career insights and life after college.
Thursday, November 6
11:00am-1:o0pm
First-Gen College Celebration in the Taylor Center
Join us at the Taylor Center to celebrate First-Gen pride! Enjoy donuts, tote bags, and fun photo ops. The Student Government Alliance will have a table where you can write words of appreciation to those who encouraged you through your journey.
Friday, November 7
5:00pm-7:00pm
Tabling Outside of the Cage – First-Gen Trivia
Stop by to play first-gen trivia with the TRIO Student Support Services students and take a chance at winning a prize!
Saturday, November 8
National First-Generation College Celebration Day!
Wednesday, November 12
4:00pm-5:00pm (Location TBD)
TRIO’s Impact: Supporting Student Success in Higher Education
A panel discussion featuring TRIO staff and students sharing their experiences and highlighting the importance and impact of TRIO programs in higher education.
Events are sponsored by:
Academic Success Center, Alumni and Family Career Engagement, Piper Center for Vocation & Career, Taylor Center for Equity & Inclusion, TRIO McNair Scholars Program, Carleton and St. Olaf TRIO Student Support Services and SSS Board of Leaders, Student Government Alliance
The following link provides data on first-generation enrollment at St. Olaf College. As a First-Generation Forward Institution, the College strives to provide the resources necessary for first-generation students to thrive in a supportive learning environment.
Share Your First Gen Pride
Download a dorm room sign, Zoom background, Instagram stickers, etc. to share your pride and support of First-Generation college students.
View ➤
First-Generation Leaders
St. Olaf College is proudly home to many students, staff, and faculty who were the first in their families to attend or complete college.
Read ➤
Share Your Story
An opportunity for First-Generation college students, faculty, and staff at St. Olaf to share their story.
Share ➤