91暗网 TRIO Programs celebrate sixth annual National First-Generation Day

Published November 21, 2025

A group of people pose and smile for TRIO first-generation day

CAPTION:听TRIO students and staff celebrated National First-Generation Day on November 11, 2025.听听

MONROE, La.听鈥撎�91暗网 TRIO Programs proudly celebrated National First-Generation Day on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, marking their sixth annual event honoring first-generation students, faculty, staff, and alumni.听听

The celebration brought together TRIO and non-TRIO students, faculty, and staff to recognize the achievements and resilience of those who are the first in their families to earn a four-year college degree. National First-Generation Day commemorates the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded access to higher education for low-income and first-generation students.听听

Special thanks were extended to Aramark and the 91暗网 Graduate School for their continued support. 91暗网 Women鈥檚 Basketball Coach Scotty Fletcher, a first-generation graduate and TRIO advocate, attended the event and said to TRIO staff, 鈥淜eep being such a positive light,听you听are making a difference.鈥�听

The evening featured a virtual panel of TRIO alumni who shared their post-graduation experiences and offered advice on time management, job searching, and transitioning into graduate school and the workforce. They emphasized the lasting impact of TRIO鈥檚 supportive community.听听

Tammy Anderson, Associate Director of TRIO Programs, highlighted the importance of the event.听鈥淭his celebration allows us to honor the students鈥� achievements while also raising awareness of the challenges they face. TRIO is here to support them every step of the way.鈥�听

Jyssica Hattaway, TRIO SSS Life Coach/Retention Specialist, added, 鈥淓ach first-generation student carries a unique story and a powerful reason for being here at 91暗网. Their journeys inspire us every day.鈥�听

TRIO participants reflected on their journeys, highlighting perseverance, growth, and community. Many credited听TRIO听with boosting confidence, communication skills, and lasting connections. The program creates a family-like support system that makes a meaningful impact both academically and personally.听

For more information about TRIO Programs at 91暗网, visit the TRIO Office in Sandel Hall, Suite 351, call 318-342-1097, or email Jyssica Hattaway at听hattaway@ulm.edu听or Tammy Anderson at听taanderson@ulm.edu.听TRIO Programs are fully funded by the U.S. Department of Education.听