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.

Find answers to your questions on our First-Generation Student Resource Guide.

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

Jenny Lieurance

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 Mabee 302. View the meeting schedule.

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First Scholars Badge - black text with blue, green and orange dots

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

Text: Proud to be F1RST GENERATION with Ichabod ImageDo 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.

 

 

Text: Proud to Support F1RST GEN with IchabodDo 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.
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