Florida State University is hosting a weeklong series of events for First-Generation College Celebration (FGEN) week from Wednesday, Nov. 5, through Wednesday, Nov. 12. Created in 2017 by the Council for Opportunity in Education and FirstGen Forward (formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success), the celebration recognizes students, faculty and staff who are the first in their families to earn a college degree.
The Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE), which is part of the Division of Student Affairs and the Division of Undergraduate Studies, has partnered with multiple departments to organize events that honor and empower first-generation students.
As a cornerstone event of FSU FGEN Week 2025, the Legacy Conference will span three days and include interactive workshops, student panels and networking opportunities. Rooted in the theme, “From First to Fearless: Legacy in the Making,” the sessions celebrate the resilience and brilliance of first-gen college students and will further connect students with professionals and campus resources to support their continued success.
“The Legacy Conference is more than an event; it’s a student development experience,” said DeOnte Brown, who will begin his new position as dean of Undergraduate Studies Nov. 14. “It affirms the unique strengths and stories of first-generation students while equipping them with tools to thrive academically, professionally and personally. By centering personal experience, community and legacy, FSU fosters a culture of excellence that reverberates across campus and beyond.”
For the full schedule of FGEN week events, visit care.fsu.edu/fgen-celebration-week.
Upcoming Legacy Conference Schedule of Events:
Thursday, Nov. 6
Self-discovery, Wellness and Global Mindset
Exchange Programs
3:45 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202
Stress Management Workshop
4 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 105
Values, Voice and Victory
5 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202
Mindfulness Workshop
5 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 211
Monday, Nov. 10
Leadership, Legacy and Motivation
From First to Fearless
2:30 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202
DREAMing Forward: First-Gen Student Leaders Panel
3:45 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 105
The Tailored Man
3:45 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202
Locked In: Goal Setting Workshop
5 p.m. | Thagard Building, Room 202
Additional FGEN Week 2025 events:
THURSDAY, NOV. 6
First-Generation Shark Tank Competition
4-6 p.m. | Innovation Hub
Put your problem-solving skills to the test and step into the spotlight for the First-Generation Shark Tank Competition. Co-sponsored by Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship and FSU Innovation Hub, this exciting competition is open to all FSU students. Innovative ideas should tackle real challenges faced by First Gen college students. Compete for cash prizes, enjoy refreshments and join a community of changemakers ready to turn bold solutions into reality. Click here to learn more and sign up for the Shark Tank Competition.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 12
Market Wednesday
10 a.m. – noon | Thagard Building
Stop by the CARE table to connect with other first-generation students and staff and take a photo to share the moment.
For more information about the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) and the programs they offer, visit care.fsu.edu.