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 Lamar 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 Lamar University campus community to join us as we build a network for first-generation students to thrive and grow.
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!
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.
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.
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. Guest Speaker Dr. Thomas Johnson, President Lamar State College Orange. There will be a catered meal.
Saturday, November 9
11 am - Noon
Virtual
Engage and celebrate online first gen LU students. There will be a panel discussion, activities, and door prizes.
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.
Interdisciplinary Studies for Social Studies
Sophomore
Lumberton
I carry the pride of being a first-generation college student as a testament of my parents' unwavering support. This pride is rooted in the appreciation of the sacrifices made by my parents that have allowed me to continue my education. Because higher education is accessible to me, I can beat the statistics and be used as a hopeful example for future generations. One thing that I have learned as a first-generation college student is that every obstacle can easily be turned into an opportunity, and that is why I am first-gen proud.
Psychology
Senior
Fort Worth
I am proud to be first gen because it fuels me to be a better version of myself. By furthering my education, I will be able to provide for myself and my family and be an inspiration to others in my community.
Business Marketing
Senior
Nederland
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.
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, Lamar 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
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs and Strategic Initiatives
Director of Strategic Initiatives
Email: wjackson10@lamar.edu
Phone: (409) 880-7169
Fax: (409) 880-7131
Email: sicr@lamar.edu
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
Mailing Address
PO Box 10308
Beaumont, Texas 77710
Physical Address:
912 West Virginia
Beaumont, Texas 77705