USC to host first-generation celebration week in November

The University of South Carolina will host First-Generation Celebration Week from November 8 to 14, 2026, to honor its first-generation students. The university is committed to helping these students succeed and will offer a variety of events and resources during the week.

A Week of Events and Resources

According to a message from USC President Michael D. Amiridis, the celebration is designed to spotlight the thousands of first-generation Gamecock students who have chosen to pursue a college education. Both my wife, Ero, and I are the first in our families to earn college degrees, and we have spent most of our lives in higher education, Amiridis wrote. We know that a college education is life-changing for first-generation students and their families, and we also know the challenges that many first-gen students face. The First-Generation Center provides academic, financial, and campus resources to empower students to meet their goals.

Specific Celebration Events

The week’s events include a breakfast with first-generation faculty and staff, a recognition ceremony for students, faculty, staff, and alumni, and a Spoken Word and Creative Expressions Night featuring student stories of resilience. Workshops will cover topics such as graduate school, research, experiential learning, and money management. USC colleges and schools will also host events to connect first-generation students with peers and faculty in their academic disciplines.

First Generation Center at USC celebrates November 8, First Generation College Celebration Week!

Celebrating Community Connections

The celebration will conclude with a First-Gen Celebration Tailgate & Connections Fair on Greene Street, featuring food, giveaways, and games. A Service Saturday event will give first-generation students, faculty, and staff a chance to help the community.