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By Joy Vann

In recognition of the distinctive honor of being the first person in a family to graduate from college, �������� held a pinning ceremony April 14 in Webb Center. The event is sponsored and coordinated each semester by the SEES First-Generation Committee.

Graduating seniors from all ��������’s colleges and schools sat proudly with family, friends, professors and well-wishers, as they awaited receiving pins that they will wear on their gowns on graduation day. Students were called up by college or school to have their family member, friend or first-generation �������� faculty member pin on their first-generation pins.

The host of the evening was Vicki Williams, Ph.D., dean of students and associate vice president for engagement, who emceed the evening that included a photo staging area to commemorate the night and remarks by University administrators and a student representative and ended with a reception.

Evelyn Ashley, Ph.D., senior associate vice president for student engagement, welcomed the audience saying how all the first-generation journeys were marked by commitment, determination and resilience. She noted the striking percentage that only 24% of first-generation students earn a bachelor’s degree within six years of entering college.

“You are here for a reason. You have worked tirelessly despite the hurdles, and you truly deserve every bit of this recognition for a job exceptionally well done,” Dr. Ashley said, adding that she was a first-generation college student from a family of six children.

“Being the first-in was not without confusion, frustration and moments of loneliness, but I hope you all had less of those moments, because �������� specifically worked hard to make sure first-gen students and their families know that we are here to help you navigate this new world and navigated you have, across the stage and into the working world,” she said. “It's a testament to your resilience, your courage, your spirit.”

DaNaisha Gwyn from Evansville, Indiana, is graduating from the Ellmer School of Nursing before beginning a job as a registered nurse. Joining her at the ceremony was her sister, Kenyon and her two small children.

“This means everything to me,” she said. “I hope that I’m an example for them and that this opens doors for them.”

Madison Simpson of Chesterfield, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in biology, said it was a meaningful ceremony.

“It’s so nice to be recognized for our hard work and for what it means to be a first-generation graduate,” she said.  

Janet Carter, president of the �������� Alumni Association, talked about how she and her husband, Mark, were both first-generation graduates who are grateful for their �������� experience and especially to an �������� professor who made a connection for her

Prior to graduation.

“My husband and I would not be where we are today without ��������,” she said. “It changed our lives, as I know it's changed all of yours.”

Ismael Gil, who will receive a Bachelor of Science in healthcare administration, spoke on behalf of the graduating seniors. He shared the difficulties of his educational journey but explained how he kept showing up, applied himself, improved his study habits and joined clubs that he went on to lead — that will culminate with graduation.

In his closing toast, Gil said, “To my fellow first-gen students, I know what it took for you—the late nights, the awkward questions you Googled instead of asking, the moments you almost gave up, the times you felt behind and kept going anyway. You made a way, when there wasn’t a clear one,” he said. “… That's what being first-gen means to me.”