Join the First-Generation Initiative as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and connection of first-generation students, alumni, faculty and staff. This year’s theme — Rooted in Community — honors the deep roots that ground us and the growing branches that connect us. Through workshops, networking, storytelling, and celebration, we’ll uplift the shared experiences that make SMU’s first-gen community thrive.
We hope you can join us by attending one or more of the following events:
- Planting Our Roots: Celebrating Community – Join us on Sunday, November 9 from 5-7 p.m. for food, music, and a fun activity planting succulents outside in the McElvaney Quad!
- Growing our Roots: First-Gen Alumni Panel & Networking Event – Hear from SMU first-gen alumni who have built meaningful careers while staying rooted in their values, passions, and purpose on Monday, November 10 from 5-7 p.m. in Blanton 108/110/112.
- Rooted in True Self: Identity Method Workshop – Come hear Chris Meyers share a unique and fresh perspective on topics of worldview, identity, and the power of belief on Tuesday, November 11 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Hughes-Trigg Student Center Chamber.
- Turner Scholars x FGI Evolve Speaker Series – Co-hosted with Turner Scholars, hear from First-Gen alumni Cynthia Gudiel on Tuesday, November 11 from 5-7 p.m. in Moody Auditorium. Her belief that “higher education can be a path to social mobility” motivates her work and will undoubtedly shine through during her lecture.
- Library Game Night: Branch Out & Grow Your Game (students only) – Spend a fun evening playing board games with student group, Board Together, and learn a new hobby on Tuesday, November 11 from 7-9 p.m. near the Starbucks in Fondren Library.
- Celebrating Our Roots: First-Gen Fest – Come celebrate all that makes our First-Gen community strong on Wednesday, November 12 from 12-2 p.m. in Hughes-Trigg Student Center second floor! Enjoy a free t-shirt, food, and music.
- Stay Rooted: FGA General Body Meeting (students only) – Join the First-Generation Association (FGA) student body meeting to learn more about the FGA student group on Thursday, November 13 from 5-6 p.m. in Hughes Trigg Student Center 226.
We’re looking forward to celebrating our First-Gen students!
