Wednesday, Nov 8, 2017
Event took place at Rider on anniversary of Higher Education Act
Rider University joined higher education institutions around the nation on Nov. 8 in honoring its students who are among the first members of their families to attend college. This event is part of a national First-Generation College Celebration, held to commemorate the signing of the 1965 Higher Education Act (HEA), which has helped millions of poor students to become first in their families to earn college degrees.
The celebration at Rider included an “I AM FIRST” generation rally with a walk around the Campus Mall from noon to 1 p.m. to highlight the presence of first-generation Rider students and to honor their experiences.
The Council for Opportunity for Education (COE) spearheaded this effort in partnership with NASPA–Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. Both organizations, which are headquartered in Washington, D.C., work with higher education professionals to assure students access and succeed in college.
“Millions of low-income students who have benefitted from the programs created by the Higher Education Act have subsequently helped shape our country as astronauts, judges, scientists, politicians, scholars, writers, business leaders, and more,” said Maureen Hoyler, COE president. “It’s especially important to celebrate these accomplishments because even in 2017, campuses and communities can overlook the academic capabilities that lie dormant within so many first-generation students.”
Following the rally, there was a group picture and raffling of prizes. Other colleges and student groups around the country showcased their efforts throughout social media using the hashtag #celebratefirstgen.
“Without a college education, the gifts and talents of first-generation students will go unnoticed and unappreciated,” said Queen S. Jones, Rider's TRIO director.