SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College is proud to celebrate National First-Generation College Student Day with a special campus event on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025.
The event will be held 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Learning Commons (Building 19) Forum.
While the national observance falls on Nov. 8, STCC is hosting its celebration earlier to ensure that students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members can come together in recognition and support of first-generation college students.
National First-Generation College Student Day is celebrated at college campuses across the country to:
- Recognize the success and contributions of first-generation college students
- Raise awareness about the unique experiences and challenges they face
- Acknowledge the anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965, landmark legislation that expanded college access for students from historically underrepresented backgrounds
The day honors the perseverance and achievements of students who are the first in their families to attend college. Many first-generation students navigate higher education without family experience or guidance, often facing challenges such as financial pressures, unfamiliarity with college systems, and limited access to mentorship. The celebration encourages institutions to foster supportive environments that empower first-generation students to thrive.
This year’s theme, “First… But Not Alone,” reinforces that first-generation students at STCC are part of a strong, encouraging community. The celebration will highlight the power of connection, resilience and belonging by engaging students and their supporters in activities designed to inspire and uplift.
“At STCC, we are committed to making sure first-generation students know they are valued, supported and not alone,” said STCC Vice President of Student Affairs Darcey Kemp. “Their courage, resilience and determination enrich our college community. This celebration honors their success while reinforcing our dedication to providing resources in a supportive community that we intentionally build together.”
Event Highlights
The “First… But Not Alone” Celebration will include:
Panel Discussion: Voices of the First-Generation Community
A student, alum, faculty member and staff member – each first-generation themselves – will share their personal experiences and insights during a panelist discussion from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The panel aims to offer encouragement, build understanding and foster connection across the STCC community. Portions of the panel will be recorded and captured through photography or short video clips for future storytelling and social media.
Interactive Activities
- “First… But Not Alone” Collage Activity
Participants will choose from reflective prompts and contribute written responses to a collaborative visual collage that celebrates shared experiences and the resilience of first-generation students. - “Take One, Leave One” Postcard Activity
Attendees will write postcards with messages of encouragement, advice or inspiration for fellow first-generation students and then take a postcard written by someone else, creating a meaningful exchange of support.
These activities aim to create a warm, welcoming space that centers on the voices, stories and strength of first-generation students while encouraging engagement from alumni, faculty, staff, and community partners.
Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.
About Springfield Technical Community College
STCC, the Commonwealth’s only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC’s highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.
