University of North Texas 
The University of North Texas recently celebrated First-Gen Celebration Week, recognizing and honoring students who are the first in their families to pursue a college education. With 40.67% of UNT’s undergraduate population identifying as first-generation, the celebration highlighted the determination, pride and community that define the first-generation experience.
Hosted by the First Generation Success Center (FGSC), the week’s events focused on building community, fostering professional growth and connecting students with resources that support their academic and personal success. Over 700 students joined in, from Discovery Park and Frisco Landing to the UNT Denton campus and virtually through the Online Student Experience.
One of the week’s signature events, First Gen Fest, welcomed 333 students for an afternoon of celebration and connection. The event featured music, giveaways, limited-edition First Gen T-shirts, a photo bus and an appearance by UNT mascot Scrappy. Students came together to celebrate their accomplishments, share experiences and find encouragement among peers and staff who share their journey.
That same day, 180 students attended Dress for Success, a free professional clothing pop-up shop and networking event with TIAA. Students networked with TIAA professionals and enjoyed a business dress etiquette presentation exploring the dos and don’ts of business attire. Nearly 200 professional clothing items donated by TIAA employees were distributed to UNT’s first-generation students. An additional 60 items were given to the Diamond Eagle Student Resources Clothing Closet, a year-round campus resource that provides students with free professional attire for interviews, internships and other career opportunities.
“Seeing students learn about UNT’s resources, post-graduation opportunities at TIAA and reflecting on what “first-gen” means was so meaningful. Being first-gen isn’t something that stops at getting admitted to college. It’s about thriving while you’re here and after graduation.” said Maddie Lindstrom, coordinator of the First Generation Success Center.
Established in 2021, the FGSC serves over 4,000 students and offers academic coaching, financial literacy workshops, career preparation resources, and programs to navigate college life and beyond. Last year alone, FGSC hosted 45 programs and engaged students in nearly 630 one-on-one meetings, fostering a strong sense of community among first-generation learners. Students who engaged with FGSC had a higher average GPA and retention rate when compared to first-generation students who did not engage.
UNT's First-Generation Success Center is part of the Eagle Engagement Center within the Division of Student Affairs.