Tiffin University is proud to announce its continued celebration of the annual National First-Generation College Student Day, to be held Friday, November 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the Center for Innovation and Learning, Room 104. The event is free and open to the public.
This year marks the fifth consecutive year of TU’s celebration, which honors students who are the first in their families to attend college. The event will feature a panel of TU alumni, faculty and staff who were first-generation college students themselves. These speakers will share personal stories, advice and encouragement with current students.
The 2025 keynote speaker is Bethani Burkhart, TU alumna and Director of the Career Services. Panelists include Nicholas Reinhard, Assistant Professor of Sociology and Faculty Advisor for First-Generation Dragons; Shannon De Clute, Professor of Psychology; Kerry L. Jones, Coordinator of Assessment and Advisor for First-Generation Dragons and Jamie Marinis, Assistant Professor of English and Advisor for First-Generation Dragons.
“This is our fifth-year hosting festivities for National First-Generation College Student Day, and each year our celebrations grow in size and impact,” said Professor Nicholas Reinhard, Faculty Advisor for First-Generation Dragons. “Being the first in your family to attend college is a powerful achievement. It breaks generational barriers and opens doors for future success. This day is about recognizing that courage and celebrating the students who are shaping a new legacy.”
As part of the celebration, multiple scholarships will be awarded to first-generation students. If you would like to contribute to the scholarship fund, donations can be made at crowdfund.tiffin.edu/project/47044
The celebration aligns with the national initiative led by NASPA (National Association of Student Personnel Administrators) and the Suder Foundation, commemorating the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965—a landmark legislation aimed at expanding access to higher education for underrepresented communities.
For more information about the event, please contact Kerry L. Jones at 419.448.5866 or joneskl@tiffin.edu.