Campus News

Supporting our First Generation Initiative

With more than 42 percent of our undergraduate students among the first generation in their families to seek a four-year college or university degree, UC Santa Cruz has proudly launched a First Generation Initiative.

By

With more than 42 percent of our undergraduate students among the first generation in their families to seek a four-year college or university degree, UC Santa Cruz has proudly launched a First Generation Initiative. The program—modeled after a pioneering effort at UC Irvine, and now including all 10 UC campuses—seeks to support, connect, and highlight first-generation undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty, professional staff, and alumni. 
Faculty, professional staff and graduate students who are first-gen themselves are invited to sign up and receive T-shirts. Buttons are available for those who are not first-gen, but want to show support for the campaign.
T-shirts and buttons can be sent through intercampus mail or can be picked up on Monday, Sept. 18, or Friday, Sept. 22. Details are in the sign-up form.
We invite you to join our campaign in preparation for Welcome Week, Sept. 24-27, when first-gen college grads and supporters are being asked to wear their T-shirts and buttons to welcome incoming and returning students. 
Last modified: Mar 18, 2025