Ringling College is proud to launch a series of programs in celebration of its first-ever First-Generation College Student community, honoring the achievements and experiences of those who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree. In August, the College was selected as one of sixty new members of the FirstGen Forward Network for demonstrating a commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.
“Being selected as a FirstGen Forward Network Member is both an honor and a call to action,” said Dr. Kevin Kruger, interim president and CEO of FirstGen Forward.
“Ringling College of Art and Design joins a growing movement of institutions and professionals who are committed to advancing access, sharing best practices, and driving systemic change to ensure first-generation students succeed. We look forward to seeing Ringling College and the entire Class of 2025 make a lasting impact,” Kruger shared.
Ringling Firsts, an on-campus organization supporting and celebrating first-generation college students, will mark its inaugural First-Generation College Student Day with a celebration event on Scott Plaza on November 3. Then, on November 5, a catered social luncheon for both students and faculty will feature a panel of first-generation students sharing their experiences. (More information below.)
Additionally, the upcoming Faculty Professional Day on October 14 will be exclusively focused on first-generation students, their experiences, and ways to empower and facilitate their success.
The events serve to highlight the College’s continued efforts to nurture first-generation students, who make up more than 40% of the school’s enrollment. Ringling College was recently accepted into FirstGen Forward, a network of nearly 500 higher education institutions nationwide that are committed to understanding first-generation student success and building more inclusive systems.
“We are so excited to join the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Dr. Elçin Haskollar, Associate Dean of Students and the director of the Center for Student Success.
“Being a part of this national community of colleges and universities supporting first-generation students not only affirms the work we are doing at Ringling College, but also connects us with other institutions, helping us make informed decisions based on data, research, and best practices.”
“Through Ringling Firsts, we continue to build supportive programs and celebrate our first-generation students, so every student can thrive and feel empowered,” Dr. Haskollar shared.
The newly founded Ringling Firsts organization fosters an in-person and online community, while also offering specialized mental health services and staff and faculty development programs, including DEEP (Diversity, Equity, Education, and Professionalism) training.
First-Generation College Student Celebration Day
Monday, November 3, 11:30 am-12:30 pm in Scott Plaza
Join us on Scott Plaza as we celebrate First-Generation College Student Day with music, take pictures with Remy, hand out Ringling 1st Gen swag, and meet and mingle.
Social Luncheon
Wednesday, November 5, 11:30 am-12:30 pm in the Diane Roskamp Exhibition Hall
Join us in the Exhibition Hall for our First-Generation College Student Celebration social luncheon. Engage in conversation with current students, staff, and faculty. Hear from a panel of First-Generation Students as they share their experiences. Enjoy catered food, take pictures with Remy, receive free Ringling First Gen swag, and learn more about resources on campus that support first-generation college students.
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Contact:
Office of Marketing and Communications
communications@ringling.edu
941-309-4008
