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Celebrating Our First-Generation Billikens

November 7, 2022

Dear members of the SLU community,

This week, institutions across the nation will celebrate first-generation college students. 

November 8 is the official National First-Generation College Celebration. But one day isn’t enough to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of our first-generation Billikens. We will recognize our first-gen students and colleagues with events throughout the week

Learn more in this video message: 

Screen capture from videoClick to view the video

When I was a first-year, first-generation college student at a Jesuit university in Cleveland, I could not have predicted that my path would lead me here. I am deeply grateful for the Jesuit university community that supported me, and it brings me great joy to celebrate each of you.

Events this week include:

Kick-off Event: SLU Men's Basketball Game 
Monday, November 7, 2022
7 p.m., Chaifetz Arena
First-generation student-athletes, athletics staff and game attendees will be recognized during halftime.

National First Generation College Celebration Day
Tuesday, November 8, 2022
Grab a donut, a sticker and a photo with the Billiken!
North Campus: Outside Starbucks from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
South Campus: Outside Fresh Gatherings, Noon-2 p.m.

First-Gen Fresh Friday at the Clock Tower
Friday, November 11, 2022
Noon - 3 p.m. Join us and our friends from Harris-Stowe State University for candy apples, cookie decorating and a live DJ from KSLU. Wear your First Gen T-shirts!

 

May God bless each of you, this week and every week. 


Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D.
President