Who is a First-Generation College Student?
You are a First-Generation college student if neither of your parents/legal guardians completed a bachelor’s degree, regardless of siblings and other relatives. This website provides information to help first-generation students find university resources and navigate college expectations.
Questions? Contact Jenny Lieurance, 785.670.1941.
First-Generation College Celebration Day
We are excited to announce that Governor Laura Kelly has proclaimed November 8, 2023 as First-Generation College Celebration Day. Washburn led the effort to request the proclamation and Kansas is the first state in the country to make this declaration.
View the Proclamation
View Washburn University's Press Release
Meet with the First-Generation Specialist: Jenny Lieurance
Jenny is our First-Generation Specialist who you can meet with regarding First-Generation resources, campus resources, finding scholarships and more. She has been a First-Generation college student and Ichabod herself. She can support you at any point on your way to receiving your degree. If you identify as a First-Generation student and are not sure who to turn to, schedule an appointment in Navigate with Jenny.
We Are F1rst: Student Organization
We Are F1rst is the official Washburn student organization for First-Generation students and meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 4 p.m. in Plass 218. View the meeting schedule.
Stay Up to Date and Connected by Following us on social media:
First Scholars
Washburn University was recognized as a NASPA First-Gen Forward Institution in the inaugural 2019-2020 cohort, one of 80 universities in the nation recognized for its high-impact programs for first-generation students.
In 2023, Washburn University was one of twenty-two institutions to advance to a NASPA First Scholars Institution by demonstrating their commitment to advancing first-generation student outcomes though improving student success initiative and institution-wide approaches.
FAQ – Resource Guides to assist in your engagement with our first-generation students at Washburn University. These guides are made available by the Title III Strengthening Institutions Grant and sponsored by the Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning.
Faculty & Staff Request a First-Generation Office Decal
Do you identify as a First-Generation college graduate? Please fill out this brief form to be added to our Faculty & Staff list and receive an office decal to show your pride.
Do you identify as an ally for First-Generation students? Please fill out this brief form to be added to our Faculty & Staff list and receive an office decal to show your support.
- Small class sizes are ideal for First-Generation students who are often hesitant to ask for help.
- Washburn faculty are student-focused and provide a strong support system for First-Generation students.
- The First-Generation Mentor program will connect students with alumni and community members who can help broaden students’ academic and professional networks.
- Washburn was founded on the principle that all people – regardless of family income, race, ethnicity, or gender – have the right to earn an education.
