First Generation Connections
Welcome to the First Generation Connections program! Our goal is to ensure that all students, including first-generation, receive the tools they need to be successful at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University. Being first-gen at LU means your parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college or university degree in the United States.
Research shows that the barriers to success for first-generation students are not just academic. Social, emotional, and physical barriers can be just as impactful. We invite the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University campus community to join us as we build a network for first-generation students to thrive and grow.
Fall 2024 Events
Connections Meet Ups
Wednesday, September 11 & Wednesday, October 16
Noon - 1 pm
Live Oak Ballroom in the Setzer Student Center
A special event for First Gen Connections students and supporters. We'll host a panel discussion led by first gen students, staff, faculty, and alumni, and you'll learn tools to navigate your college experience. Lunch will be provided. Space is limited, so sign up today!
Coffee and Conversations
Wednesday, November 6
8 am - 10 am
Lobby, Center for Resiliency, Cherry Engineering Building
Please join us as we share our experiences being first gen, discuss what it means to be first gen proud, and register for door prizes. This event is for first gen students and supporter of first gen.
First Gen Cardinal Care Resource Fair
Thursday, November 7
Noon - 2 pm
Setzer Student Center Atrium
Receive campus resources from different departments on campus. Engage with other first-gen students and supporters. There will be information on preparing for finals, study tips, and preparing for spring 2025 semester. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
First Gen Essay Award Luncheon
Friday, November 8
Noon - 1:30 pm
Reaud Executive Suite
We will celebrate the Fall 2024 First Gen Students of the Month, McNair Scholars, and other first gen students for their accomplishments and achievements. There will be a guest speaker and a catered lunch.
First Gen Virtual College Celebration
Saturday, November 9
10 am - 12 pm
Virtual
Engage and celebrate online first gen LU students. There will be a panel discussion, activities, and door prizes.
NASPA Annual Conference
March 15-19, 2025
New Orleans, Louisiana
This conference is a global gathering of student affairs professionals enthusiastic about important higher education issues including first-gen and other areas. Undergraduate students who have fellowships and graduate students are welcome to attend. Contact us for more information.
First Generation Student of the Month
Congratulations to Billy Rash, the September student of the month! Billy is a Business Marketing senior from Nederland. He says:
College allows people to pave their own way into the world. Being a first-gen college student means teaching yourself how to get into that position. Most of the guidance I have found throughout my life has come from the relationships I have made with those around me. Teachers, coaches, and friends have all become mentors in my path. My relationship with these people is what I am most proud about as a first-gen student.
Advisory Council
Dr. Wilma R. Jackson, Co-Chair
Director, Strategic Initiatives
Andre Favors, Co-Chair
Instructor, Communication and Media
Dr. Gabriel Crosby
Assistant Vice President, Student Success
Pamela Comer
Director, McNair Scholars Program
Dr. Maegan Collins
Chair, LIT General Education and Developmental Studies
Adjunct Faculty, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University
Dr. Ashley Dockens
Certified AI Expert
Assistant Provost, Academic Innovation and Quality Assurance
Associate Dean, Policy and Procedure, College of Graduate Studies
Amy Jones
Coordinator, Center for Teaching and Learning Enhancement
Celine Do
LU Alumni, HR Coordinator, Provost Umphrey Law Firm
Zelda Glenmore
Assistant Director, Housing and Residence Life
Ben Kern
Director, Recreational Sports
Contact Us
Dr. Freddie Titus
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs and Strategic Initiatives
Dr. Wilma R. Jackson
Director of Strategic Initiatives
Email: wjackson10@lamar.edu
Phone/Fax/Email:
Phone: (409) 880-7169
Fax: (409) 880-7131
Email: sicr@lamar.edu
Office Hours & Location:
Mon-Fri: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Closed 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
912 West Virginia
Beaumont, Texas 77705
Physical Address:
912 West Virginia
Beaumont, Texas 77705
