Colorado Mesa University (CMU) is proud to take what’s known as National First-Generation Day on November 8 and extend it into a full week of celebration from November 4–11. The week will highlight the courage, resilience and unique experiences of first-generation college students, a community that makes up nearly 50% of CMU’s student body. First-Gen Week not only recognizes their individual achievements but also underscores CMU’s deep commitment to fostering an environment where these trailblazing students—and their families—can thrive.
More than just a celebration, First-Gen Week reinforces CMU’s role as an institution dedicated to serving those who are the first in their families to attend college. By recognizing that education is a powerful tool in changing the trajectory of a generation, CMU is deeply invested in providing the resources, guidance and community that these students need to succeed—not only during their time at CMU but beyond.
Throughout the week, CMU’s First-Generation Committee will host a variety of events aimed at celebrating and supporting its first-gen Mavericks. These events, while festive, carry a deeper purpose: to connect students with faculty, staff and peers who understand their journeys, and to foster a sense of belonging.
From the kick-off event where students will create “I’m First” buttons to showcase their pride, to the National First-Gen Day BBQ, the events provide spaces for reflection, celebration and elevating the voices of CMU’s fearless first-gen. These activities are designed to encourage students to embrace themselves as trailblazers, connect with others who share similar experiences and engage with the broader CMU community in ways that are transformative.
This year, the newly formed student-led First-Gen Club is hosting an inaugural campus-wide food drive in collaboration with TRIO and Reisher Scholars. The drive will support the Community Food Bank and CMU’s own pantry, underscoring that first-gen students at CMU are not just breaking barriers for themselves but also embodying leadership and service to their community.
First-Gen Week is just one piece of CMU’s year-round support for first-gen students. The university continually works to expand resources for first-generation Mavericks, offering mentorship programs, academic support and leadership opportunities to help them succeed throughout their academic journey.
From the moment they step on campus to the day they graduate, first-gen students at CMU are met with a network of support dedicated to helping them reach their fullest potential.
The media is invited to join CMU in celebrating First-Gen Week, with the kick-off event taking place on Monday, November 4, from 9:30-11:30am in The Plaza. To view the full list of First-Gen Week events, visit gp087.com/calendar.