Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,
As a university that is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, we know that all experiences in their various forms contribute to the vibrancy and excellence of our campus communities.
On Friday, November, 8, we will lift up the experiences of our first-generation students, faculty and staff when the Bothell, Seattle and Tacoma campuses join universities across the country to participate in the third annual .
鈥淏eing the first鈥� in your family to attend college comes with a unique set of challenges and often our first-generation students, both undergraduate and graduate, feel invisible. As a first-gen student myself, I know this well. I am also aware of the great contributions that are made by our first-generation community members, faculty and staff included. Your experience and perspective make us better as an institution. It is wonderful that our three campuses can come together to elevate your success during what will be a special day throughout the nation.
To participate in the celebration and demonstrate that many in our community have experienced this pathway in higher education, we鈥檙e inviting all students, faculty and staff who are the first in their families to attend college to wear 鈥淐elebrate First-Gen鈥� buttons next week. Those who need buttons can pick them up at .
A few events for our first-gen community will take place next week as well. I also encourage everyone to show their pride or support on social media using the national or UW-affiliated hashtags #CelebrateFirstGen, #BeTheFirst, #UWFirstGen or #UWFirstGenGrads.
More details about how to participate can be found on our National First-Generation College Celebration .
We are proud to be an institution that supports the success and presence of our first-generation community. I look forward to seeing the ways in which you will join us in the celebration.
Sincerely,
Rickey Hall
University Diversity Officer