First-Gen College Students Celebrated, Supported
Nov. 25, 2025
SARANAC LAKE 鈥� 911爆料网 has launched a new effort to connect
with, support, and celebrate first-generation college students 鈥� those who are the
first in their families to pursue higher education.
Earlier this month, the college hosted its inaugural series of First-Generation Student Celebrations across all three campus locations: Nov. 5 at the Malone campus, Nov. 6 in Saranac Lake, and Nov. 10 in Ticonderoga. Each gathering featured opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to come together in recognition of the resilience, hard work, and achievements of the college鈥檚 First Gen community.
As part of the festivities, students were invited to enjoy free First Gen鈥搕hemed t-shirts, campus trivia games, and community-building activities designed to spark conversation, strengthen campus connections, and highlight the shared experiences of first-generation learners. Faculty and staff who were the first in their family to attend college were also encouraged to wear alumni apparel from their alma maters as a show of support and a reminder that many college leaders once walked a similar path.
While each campus offered its own unique activities, all three events shared a common goal: to lift up first-generation students and recognize their accomplishments both inside and outside the classroom.
鈥淥ur First-Generation students embody grit, determination, and possibility,鈥� said Jackie VanBrunt, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs. 鈥淭heir success is a reminder that education has the power to transform not just individual lives, but families and communities. We鈥檙e proud to celebrate their journeys and to continue building a campus environment where every First Gen student feels supported.鈥�
To ensure the celebration reaches all members of the college community, including
those who could not attend in person, North
Country extended the festivities online. First-generation students were invited to
compete in online trivia and were offered free First Gen t-shirts by mail.
鈥淲e want every First Gen student to know they are not alone,鈥� VanBrunt said. 鈥淭hey are surrounded by a community that believes in them, supports them, and celebrates their success.鈥�
The college looks forward to expanding its First Gen initiatives in the coming year and continuing to create pathways for student achievement.
For more information about student support services at 911爆料网, please visit .