Florida International University proudly celebrated its annual First-Generation College Celebration Week from November 4–8, joining thousands of institutions nationwide in recognizing the achievements of students, faculty, staff, and alumni who are the first in their families to earn a college degree.
FIU’s commitment to first-generation student success continues to earn national recognition. In 2025, the university was named one of only 18 First Gen Forward Network Champion Institutions by NASPA’s First-Generation Forward. This distinction reflects FIU’s comprehensive programming and support services that help first-generation students thrive. These efforts are paying off: 92% of FIU’s first-generation students progress from their first to second year, a critical milestone toward graduation.
FIU President Jeanette A. Núñez emphasized the university’s pride in its first-generation community:
“At FIU, we take great pride in our first-generation students whose determination and courage set the foundation for future generations. They are trailblazers who embody the very best of what it means to be a Panther—resilient, ambitious, and driven to succeed. FIU celebrates the accomplishments of all our students and is dedicated to supporting them every step of the way.”
Week of Events
The celebration kicked off on Tuesday with a lively First-Gen Pep Rally and Resource Fair on the GC Lawns, where students connected with campus resources and enjoyed giveaways.
Throughout the week, FIU hosted events designed to inform and inspire:
- First-Gen Panel Discussion
A dynamic conversation featuring FIU faculty, staff, and alumni who were the first in their families to earn a college degree. Panelists shared personal stories of resilience and success, offering practical advice and encouragement to current first-gen students navigating their own academic journeys.
- Lunch and Learn with Faculty & Students
An interactive midday session where first-gen students connected with faculty members over lunch to discuss academic strategies, career pathways, and the importance of mentorship. The event fostered meaningful dialogue and strengthened relationships between students and faculty who share the first-gen experience.
- First-Gen Connect Networking Reception
An inaugural networking event designed to build community among first-gen students and FIU professionals. Attendees mingled with faculty and staff who were also first-generation graduates, exchanged career tips, and explored opportunities for mentorship and collaboration in a supportive environment.
- Social Media Showcase
A digital celebration highlighting the voices and achievements of FIU’s first-gen community. Students, faculty, and alumni shared inspiring stories, photos, and videos across FIU’s social platforms, amplifying the message of resilience and success to a broader audience.
First-generation students and faculty gather at FIU for a networking event, sharing experiences and building connections
Voices of First-Gen Students
These events provided opportunities for students to build community, explore academic and professional development resources, and connect with faculty and staff who share their first-generation experience.
First-Gen Pep Rally attendee Sophia Rodriguez, a first-year hospitality management major, explained:
“Being first-generation at FIU means changing the pattern within my family and paving the way for others.”
She shared how FIU provides abundant support through peer mentors and success coaches, creating a community where students feel valued and encouraged. Sophia expressed her excitement to continue her journey, not only to help her future family navigate college but also to guide her peers by sharing resources she has discovered through her involvement on campus.
Leading in Social Mobility
First-generation students embody resilience and determination. FIU celebrates their achievements and continues to lead nationally in promoting social mobility, ranking #1 among National Universities for Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report (2026).
Embracing the spirit of achievement, Roary joins first-generation students in celebrating their journey toward breaking barriers and building a brighter future.
Learn more about FIU’s first-generation initiatives or support these programs at https://firstgen.fiu.edu.