NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service — Tennessee State University held its annual First-Generation College Celebration on Nov. 6 and 7. Taking place in Clement and the New Residence Hall, the event served as a powerful platform to highlight the courage, achievements, and rich narratives of first-generation students. Over the course of two days, participants engaged in a variety of activities designed to foster connection and inspire pride in their unique journeys through higher education. 

Established in 2020 through the Title III-FUTURE Act Grant, The You First Project, themed “Graduation Initiatives for First-Generation Students,” is dedicated to enhancing the academic journey of TSU’s first-generation students, as well as provide comprehensive support from admission to graduation. The goal is to ensure that students receive the guidance they need to navigate their college experience. With the help of First-Generation Success Specialists, students learn essential academic requirements, develop their social networks, and discover their purpose in life. 

The celebration featured a variety of engaging events, including Step First! Line Dancing, which fostered community and connection through fun and movement. The Building A Tiger Legacy, an art exhibition that showcased the creativity and inspiration of first-generation students, allowed them to express their unique narratives through art. Another activity, the STIR UP Your Network: Career Mixer, provided students with opportunities to connect directly with industry executives and explore their future career paths with such groups as the United Way of Greater Nashville, HealthTrust Performance, and FUTURO.  

Dr. Sessi Aboh, director of The You First Project, stated, “I hope attendees gain a deeper appreciation for the courage and talent of our first-generation students. This celebration is about recognizing their unique stories and strengths and encouraging them to build connections with their peers as they navigate their professional journeys.” 

The celebration aligns seamlessly with the mission of The You First Project, which emphasizes increased campus engagement through organizations like the Zeta Omicron Chapter of Alpha Alpha Alpha, the First-Generation Honors Society, and the Trailblazers First-Generation Club. These entities create avenues for students to connect, engage in service opportunities, and build a supportive community. 

Senior psychology major Donyah Thomas from Memphis, Tennessee, reflected on the significance of the celebration: “It means starting something that you’ll be recognized for with generations to come and creating a story that’s uniquely yours. The You First Project has not only shaped me but taught me what it means to be a trailblazer.” 

Junior psychology and education major Makenzie Chambers, also from Memphis, emphasized, “It means that First-Gen students get the opportunity to be recognized and celebrated in a special way. The You First Project has assisted me with my personal and educational growth, providing me with comfort and accountability.” 

In 2022, TSU’s commitment to improving the college experiences of first-generation students was recognized when the university became a member institution of the FirstGen Forward Network, further solidifying its role as a leader in fostering first-generation success. 

As the festivities concluded, the excitement resonated with the belief that through initiatives like The You First Project, first-generation students will continue to thrive. This year’s celebration was a reminder that at TSU, every first-generation student is a pioneer with a bright future shaped by perseverance and community. 

For more information on The You First Project: Graduation Initiatives for the First-Generation Students please, visit FIRSTGENERATION MATTERS or The You First Project.