First-Generation Nebraska kicks of its second year of programming with a tailgate for faculty, staff and students from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at Mari’s Lounge in the Abel-Sandoz Residence Hall complex.
The tailgate is the first of many academic year events that support the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s first-generation community.
First-Generation Nebraska was launched in 2017 by the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor to provide support to students who are the first family members to attend college.
“First-Generation Nebraska is not just a program for students,” said Amy Goodburn, senior associate vice chancellor and dean of undergraduate education. “Faculty and staff have told us they benefit from these connections, as well.”
Faculty and staff events this academic year include: an Oct. 5 coffee chat with alumnus Juan M. Izaguirre; an Oct. 26 workshop with alumna Morgan McCain; and a Feb. 1 book club discussion with Jennine Capó Crucet, associate professor of English. All three are first-generation college graduates.
Faculty and staff who commit to attending all three events will receive a copy of Crucet’s book “Make Your Home Among Strangers.” A social event at The Mill at Nebraska Innovation Campus is Oct. 11.
Other events throughout the year — like the First-Gen Tailgate — allow faculty and staff who were first-generation students to spend time with current Huskers. A list of those events is available online.
Faculty and staff who register for the first-generation program receive a First-Gen sign for office doors and a button to wear on campus. Both the sign and button help first-generation college students identify faculty and staff who can relate to campus challenges. First-Gen materials are available at the Executive Vice Chancellor’s office, 208 Canfield Administration Building.
