Empowering Our First-Generation Students Panel

On Thursday, March 20, 2025, the TRIO SSS Program, EOF Program, and the Career Engagement & Experiential Learning department collaborated to host the “Empowering Our First-Generation Students” panel that had 15 scholars in attendance. The event was moderated by Dr. Joseph Jimenez, Ed.D., Graduate Studies Career Coach, who led a dynamic discussion on the benefits of support programs and their role in developing students’ social capital while building upon the NACE competencies.

Panelists included Knight Ambubuyog, Director of EOF, Sarah Smyth, Director of TRIO, and Katelyn Joyce, Assistant Director of Career Engagement & Experiential Learning. Each panelist shared personal experiences as first-generation college students, detailing how support programs played a pivotal role in their academic and professional journeys. They discussed the long-term impact these programs have had, both in their student lives and as first-generation professionals, underscoring how such initiatives continue to foster success.

This event provided valuable insights into the resources available for first-generation students, highlighting the importance of support programs in shaping future leaders and professionals.