Through signature annual events, the Penn State Chaiken Center for Student Success brings together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters to strengthen our first-gen community and advance student success across the institution. While many Penn State colleges and campuses host their own first-generation programs and celebrations, the events featured here are coordinated at the university-wide level by the Chaiken Center for Student Success.

Signature First-Generation Events

First-Generation College Celebration Day
Held annually on or around November 8, this national celebration honors the achievements and resilience of first-generation college students. Penn State’s celebration includes campus-wide programming, storytelling, and opportunities to show pride in your first-gen identity.

First-Gen Student Support Summit
Hosted each spring semester, this university-wide gathering brings together faculty and staff who support first-generation students. The Summit highlights emerging research, promising practices, and strategies to create a future-ready experience for first-gen students at Penn State.

Expanding First-Gen Community Traditions

The Chaiken Center continues to grow opportunities for connection and celebration, including new initiatives such as the First-Gen Community Celebration for graduating students and their supporters, coming for spring 2026.

Stay tuned for additional events and ways to engage throughout the academic year.