Brittanny Sherman named First-Gen Student of the Month

Lamar University (LU) sophomore Brittanny J. Sherman has been named First-Generation Student of the Month for October 2026.

Sherman, a Nederland native pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing, said being a first-generation student has encouraged her to seek opportunities that will prepare her for the future.

“Being a first-gen student means creating a path for myself and my future,” Sherman said. “Throughout this process, I have learned opportunities available on campus that have given me leadership experience.”

Sherman is among the more than half of Lamar University students who identify as first-generation college students. At LU, a first-generation student is defined as someone whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college or university degree in the United States.

Through Lamar University’s First Generation Connections program, first-generation students have access to resources, programming and a campus network designed to support their academic and personal success. The program is part of the university’s Office of Strategic Initiatives within the Division of Student Affairs.

First Generation Connections hosts meetups throughout the academic year, giving students opportunities to connect with peers and members of the university community. The program also recognizes students through its First-Generation Student of the Month initiative and hosts events celebrating the accomplishments and persistence of first-generation students.

The university has continued expanding its first-generation initiatives through its work with First-Gen Forward and campus partners, with an emphasis on student engagement, belonging and success.

For Sherman, her experience has also created an opportunity to encourage other first-generation students.

“Overall, being a first-gen student makes me proud knowing I’m able to help students who are also first-gen,” Sherman said.

As she continues her education at Lamar University, Sherman said being first-generation represents both an opportunity to build her own future and to help make the path easier for students who come after her.

To learn more about resources, upcoming meetups or the First-Generation Student of the Month program, visit Lamar University’s First Generation Connections website.