Congress Backs November 8th as 'National First-Generation College Celebration Day' to Honor Students and the Higher Ed Act of 1965

Here’s a resolution that’s less about new laws and more about recognizing a huge chunk of the college population: the first-generation student. This resolution formally expresses support for designating November 8, 2025, as “National First-Generation College Celebration Day.” Why November 8th? That’s the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA), the legislation that created critical support systems like the Federal Pell Grant and TRIO programs.

The HEA’s Legacy: Making College Possible

The Higher Education Act of 1965 was a game-changer, specifically designed to increase access to postsecondary education for students from low-income and first-generation backgrounds. If you or someone you know relied on a Pell Grant to cover tuition, or participated in programs like Upward Bound, you’ve experienced the direct impact of this 1965 legislation. This resolution calls for celebrating that Act and the programs within it that continue to assist historically excluded students in accessing higher education.

Defining the ‘First-Gen’ Experience

So, who counts as a first-generation student under this resolution? It’s someone whose parents did not complete a baccalaureate degree. If a student was raised by only one parent, that parent must not have completed a four-year degree. This isn't just a label; the resolution highlights the real challenges these students face. Consider this: 45% of current baccalaureate students are first-gen, and two-thirds of community college students identify this way. These students often navigate college without a roadmap, leading to extra academic, financial, and social hurdles.

Juggling Life and Learning

The stats in the resolution paint a clear picture of the hustle required by first-gen students. For many, college isn't a full-time academic bubble. The resolution notes that 73% of first-generation students work while in college, and 27% have dependents they must care for while attending school. This isn't just about studying; it’s about balancing shifts, childcare, and class schedules—often without the financial cushion or institutional knowledge that students whose parents went to college might have. Recognizing November 8th is essentially recognizing this massive effort and the vital role these students play in developing the future workforce.

A National Nod of Appreciation

While this resolution doesn't create new funding or change any laws, it’s a powerful symbolic gesture. It urges all people in the United States to celebrate National First-Generation College Celebration Day. For first-gen students, this national recognition can be a significant morale boost, validating their hard work and the unique challenges they overcome. For colleges, it’s a reminder to continue supporting the initiatives—like those started by the Council for Opportunity in Education—that help these students not just get into college, but successfully graduate.