The Office of New Student Programs is looking for staff and faculty who were the first in their family to earn a four-year degree to help support and engage with first-generation students on campus.

First-generation staff and faculty are encouraged to wear a “First Gen Bulldog” button Oct. 23–27 to show support for current first-generation students and to help them identify with faculty and staff who understand their experiences.

To conclude the week, a lunch will be held Oct. 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Cowles Library, Room 201. The lunch will be casual with pizza provided. Feel free to drop in and out as needed. First-generation faculty, staff, and students are invited to attend.

If you are interested in participating by wearing a button and/or attending the lunch, please fill out a survey.

This initiative is part of the Office of New Student Programs’ efforts to grow Drake’s support and resources for first-generation students. Approximately 10–14 percent of first year students at Drake are the first in their family to pursue a four-year degree. Click here for more information and to watch a video of faculty, staff, and students sharing stories and advice on the first-generation experience.

For questions, contact Marina Verlengia at marina.verlengia@drake.edu.

—Marina Verlengia, New Student Programs