First-Generation Student Celebration Week
Starting a Legacy | November 9–13, 2026
First-Generation College Celebration Week is Austin Peay State University's weeklong celebration of first-generation students, known on campus as G1Govs. From November 9 through 13, join us for an open house, a basketball game, a faculty panel, trivia, and more as we recognize the first-generation students, faculty, staff, and alumni who are starting a legacy at Austin Peay.
Why We Celebrate First-Generation Students
National First-Generation College Celebration Day is recognized each year on November 8. It marks the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded access to higher education for students from historically underserved backgrounds. Since 2017, colleges and universities across the country have used this occasion to recognize the achievements, resilience, and contributions of first-generation college students.
At Austin Peay, about 40% of our students are first-generation, meaning neither parent nor guardian has completed a four-year college degree. Celebration Week is a chance to recognize the experiences and accomplishments of our G1Govs and to build a sense of belonging and community. It's also a reminder of APSU's commitment to helping first-generation students succeed inside and outside the classroom.
Schedule of Events
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First-Gen Celebration Week Kickoff and First-Gen Commons Open House
Celebrate the grand opening of the First-Gen Commons, a new space on campus where first-gen students can connect, study, find support, and feel at home. Light refreshments provided.
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Bleaching and Boba
G1Govs and Tri-Alpha present the second annual Bleaching and Boba. Bleach a G1Govs shirt and grab a free drink from the boba bar while supplies last. All students are welcome. Funding is provided by the Student Organizational Council.
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Men's Basketball vs. Life University: Celebrating First-Generation Students
Cheer on the Govs men's basketball team as they take on the Life University Eagles. Students can pick up exclusive first-gen swag, and Athletics will recognize first-generation student-athletes with shoutouts on the video board.
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Recognition of First-Generation Veterans
On Veterans Day, we're recognizing first-generation veterans in our community on social media.
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Student Affairs First-Gen Celebration
Stop by the UC lobby for first-gen buttons and a First-Gen photo booth.
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First-Gen Faculty Panel: How College Actually Works
Hear from APSU faculty who were first-generation college students themselves. They'll share what it was like to navigate college, the lessons they learned along the way, and what they wish they had known as students.
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First-Gen Trivia Night
Test your knowledge at First-Gen Trivia Night, co-sponsored by Dining Services. The grand prize is a JBL speaker.
Get Involved with G1Gov
Celebration Week is one part of the G1Gov community at Austin Peay. Join the G1Gov student organization, find upcoming events, and learn about resources for first-generation students all year long.
Discover APSU's G1Gov Community
Contact
First-Generation Student Success Initiatives Asia Pace, Assistant Director Memorial Health 109 (931) 221-7735 paceak@apsu.edu