TRIO Celebrates First-Gen College Students

TRIO/Student Support Services celebrated Beaufort County Community College’s first-generation students, faculty, staff and alumni on November 8. The celebration was themed, “It’s All About the Blue,” and first-generation students stopped by to pose for a celebratory picture using photo props and special effects and to share with each other. TRIO scholars wore blue to express their BCCC pride. BCCC president Dr. Dave Loope, a first-generation student, offered encouragement to the students. During the celebration, a TRIO staff unveiled a bulletin board recognizing several first-generation students.

The First-Generation College Celebration is held annually on November 8 to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965 by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson. This act created federal financial aid programs to fund students’ educations and made key investments in colleges and universities. Many of the HEA’s programs, particularly the Federal TRIO programs, promote postsecondary access, retention, and completion for today’s first-generation college students.

First-generation college students face unique challenges and obstacles that other students may not encounter as they pursue college degrees. The BCCC TRIO project is proud of the determination and success of first-generation students. Adding the element of school spirit to this year’s celebration recognizes the efforts of the college to be an inviting environment that supports first-generation students in their attempts to overcome hurdles on the journey to achieve their educational goals.