1st genOn Friday, May 9, 1,134 students receive their degrees from Winona State University. Of those, almost half—540—graduates are first-generation students.

The term “first-generation” is based on the federal definition that neither parent graduated with a four-year degree. These First-Gen Warriors are beating the odds by not only enrolling in higher education but by persisting to graduation.

WSU is celebrating first-generation college students by providing programming to engage and assist this important student demographic. Programming features include unique orientation courses; a First-Gen Warrior student club; First-Gen student, professional and alumni panels; and an Advisory Board.

The First-Gen Warrior Club will host its first-ever First-Gen Recognition Fair at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11.  The fair will feature comments from President Scott Olson, music provided by first-generation students, and games and events celebrating first-generation college students at WSU.

For more information, email Charlie Opatz at copatz@winona.edu.