National First-Gen Week is Nov. 6-10, and the Faculty Symposium: Supporting First-generation Students event on Nov. 10 will focus on strategies for supporting first-generation students at Nebraska, including a panel of first-generation students speaking about their experiences on campus.

The event, hosted by the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor, will be 11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Willa Cather Dining Complex, Red Cloud Suite. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is now open.

In addition to the student panel, faculty will also discuss vignettes reflecting first-generation students’ experiences and learn about university efforts to build upon first-generation students’ strengths and assets. Faculty can also choose to attend a mini-session on:

• First-gen Pedagogical and Instructional Strategies, with Steven Cain, instructional designer in the Center for Transformative Teaching and Becky Haddad, assistant professor in Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communication
• Resources and Programs for First-Gen Students, with Lori Romano, director of the Center for Academic Success and Transition and Ryan Lahne, assistant vice chancellor, Student Affairs.
• Course Equity Dashboards for Instructors, with Chad Brassil, faculty director for undergraduate analytics

UNL has been recognized as a First Scholars Institution for its commitment to improving experiences and outcomes of first-generation college students. About one in four UNL students are first-generation, meaning their parents or guardians have not completed four-year degrees at a university or college. Many first-generation students face obstacles in navigating the university experience because they don't have prior family or community knowledge to rely upon. Understanding and celebrating the strengths and assets that first-generation students bring to the UNL campus can enable them to thrive.

“UNL’s participation in First Scholars demonstrates its commitment to providing the support, resources, and guidance that first-generation students need to complete their degrees” said Amy Goodburn, senior associate vice chancellor and dean of undergraduate education. “This symposium is specifically designed for faculty to learn about how they can partner in this broad effort to achieve the N2025 vision of equity outcomes for first-generation students.”

The deadline for registration is Oct. 27. The symposium will be limited to 100 participants. Contact Amy Goodburn at agoodburn1@unl.edu with questions.