First-Generation College Students

The A.J. Fletcher Foundation made a meaningful investment in Elon’s First-Generation services, now led by their former fellow, Kenneth Brown Jr. ’19.

Celebrations such as the First-Generation Stole Ceremony, Celebremos!: Graduates Take Flight, Donning of the Kente, and Lavender Graduation highlighted the achievements of students who embraced, and were embraced by, communities of support throughout their college experience.

Elon University celebrated over 60 first-generation students, the largest to date, during an inspiring stole ceremony on May 21 that highlighted the strength, support and achievement of the first-gen community.

Vice President for Student Life Jon Dooley offers a special graduation edition message to help the Class of 2025 stay informed and prepare for senior week.

At this year’s Residence Life Awards, First-Phoenix LLC emerged as a leading force of excellence, sweeping several top honors.

A TikTok comment enabled Yadira Fernandez Delgado ’25 to earn an internship at Dream Studio DTLA, allowing her to complement her business education with hands-on creative practice.

In an article focused on connecting first-generation students and faculty members, Inside Higher Ed highlighted the work of Elon's First-Generation Student Support Services.

Anahy Felipe De La Cruz ‘26 did not even know about college when she was growing up. Now a scholar in the Odyssey Program and president of the Latinx-Hispanic Union, she is becoming her definition of what it means to be “first gen.”

Miranda Tapia '17 prides himself on being able to make a space when there is none for the Latinx/Hispanic community.

Vice President for Student Life Jon Dooley offers this weekly message to help students stay informed and prepare for the week ahead.