Jacksonville, AL – In the heart of Jacksonville, there exists a community of trailblazers who bear the name “First-Generation Gamecocks.” These individuals are, in their families, pioneers of a new generation, forging a path to higher education. Brave and determined, they are open to every opportunity that comes their way, driven by a desire to succeed. Around the family dinner table, they are sources of immense pride, celebrated as the movers, shakers, and go-getters who aim to create a brighter future.
Jacksonville State University has always been known for its welcoming embrace of first-gen students. Their commitment to these remarkable individuals is further solidified as the university joins the prestigious First Scholars Network. It is an affirmation of the university’s dedication to supporting the aspirations and dreams of their first-gen students.
On the 8th of November, a day is reserved to honor these special students – First-Gen Celebration Day. The quad, bustling with energy from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., becomes a hub for free giveaways and valuable resources, a testament to the support and recognition these trailblazers deserve. For the first-gen students, this day is more than just an event; it is a celebration of their achievements and a testament to their potential.
Later in the evening, from 6 to 8 p.m., first-gen students are invited to participate in an alumni dinner held in the TMB Auditorium. Admission is free, a gesture of gratitude to the pioneers who have ventured into uncharted territories. However, the dinner is limited to 50 students, and online sign-up is imperative to secure a spot.
Dressed in business casual attire, the students will gather for an evening of professional growth and networking. Various faculty, staff, and alumni present valuable tips on professional dinner etiquette, teaching the students how to interact, network, and learn from first-generation graduates who have walked the same path at JSU.
The university also encourages alumni to sponsor a student for the dinner, strengthening the bond of support and mentorship that transcends generations. It is a beautiful illustration of how the community comes together to uplift each other.
The First-Generation Celebration at Jacksonville State University is not just a single-day event; it is a symbol of a shared journey. The university aims to shine a spotlight on the inspiring stories of its first-gen students, faculty, staff, and alumni through events on campus and on social media platforms. Everyone is encouraged to share their own stories, further cementing the legacy of the First-Generation Gamecocks.
