First-Gen Student Success Summit
Your story. Your voice. Your move.
Join us this November 7th for an engaging experience designed to empower, inspire, and connect first-generation college students. Through interactive workshops, keynote speakers, networking events, and community-building activities, you'll gain valuable skills, explore your leadership potential, and discover the power of your first-gen story. Whether you're just starting your college journey or preparing for what's next, this is your chance to level up.
This free event is intended for students who are, or will become, first-generation college students. You are first-generation if your parents/guardians do not have a degree from a traditional four-year college/university in the United States. This is a perfect "first conference" experience- learning "how to conference" is part of the program! That being said, the content includes real knowledge and skills, the large sessions include real networking opportunities, and the conference as a whole is designed to be impactful for any student or future student.
Summit Highlights
Watch this space for more special highlights as sessions and special guests are confirmed!
Prizes!
Summit organizers are thrilled to report that area businesses and programs are generously contributing prizes to be given away during the Summit!
You are a winner simply by showing up to invest your time in your personal development, but it is great to walk away with a lovely prize, too!
Register Now - In Suitable!
On the mobile app:
- go to Activities (checkmark icon),
- use the magnifying glass to search for Summit Registration,
- complete and submit the activity.
You are registered! To see the Summit sessions:
- go to your dashboard (gauge icon),
- scroll to the Summit achievement, and
- tap to enter.
Follow the steps below to RSVP for specific sessions.
Non-WKU students may still register using the links on this page.
See All Sessions
Use the keyword "firstgen summit" to find full descriptions of all Summit sessions. RSVP now and plan your day!
You can view a list of your RSVPs by following these steps:
- in Toppers Climb, tap the checkbox icon to go to Activities
- tap All (rather than Upcoming)
- tap the Preferences drop-down filter and choose RSVP,
- click Save
Themes
Summit content will focus on these themes:
- Successful Transition from High School or CTC to College;
- College Success and Personal Development; and
- Career Readiness.
Finale!
The summit will end on a high note with the National First-Generation College Celebration at 3:30pm. Join students, faculty, staff, alumni, and others to network, recognize first-gen student achievements, and raise awareness of the shared first-gen experience!
We look forward to partnering with you to make a great experience. This summit is not possible without you!
Do you have information or skills that are important for first-generation students? We look forward to seeing your session proposal! Follow the link to submit your "presentation." The best proposals will heavily emphasizes interaction, hands-on/live practice, and keep "lecture" elements to a minimum! Poster presentations will happen during the lunch time. Session proposals are due by September 25th. The session schedule will be finalized by October 16.
Information Fair Table Request
Would you like to request a table at the Information Fair? The Informational Fair will be on November 7, 2026, from 2:30-3:30pm. This year, the fair will be immediately before the National First-Gen Celebration, which will serve as the finale of the conference. It will include student recognition; networking among students, faculty, staff, alumni, and others; and an upbeat, informal tone. Tablers from the fair are welcome to stay for the Celebration!
Faculty, Staff, and Alumni advocates are invited to attend the National First-Gen Celebration and Student Recognition. Networking will begin at 3:00pm and continue until approximately 4:30pm. We hope you enjoy helping students practice their skills and celebrate their accomplishments!
Students may volunteer to help plan and/or present the conference. Develop your skills while you help support first-gen students!
Students are also encouraged to submit session proposals (see above).
Sponsorships - form coming soon!
The summit will be on Saturday, November 7, from 8:30am to approximately 4:30pm. The preliminary schedule is below and is subject to change. Each breakout session will include multiple options on the following themes: Successful Transition from High School or CTC to College; College Success and Personal Development; and Career Readiness.
8:30am to 9:20am - Keynote/Charge
9:30am to 10:20am - Breakout Session 1
10:30am to 11:20am - Breakout Session 2
11:30am to 12:50pm - Lunch (on your own, multiple options are available on the first floor)
1:00pm to 1:50pm - Breakout Session 3
2:00pm to 2:30pm - Revisit the Charge with Special Guests
2:30pm to 3:30pm - Information Fair
3:00pm to 3:30pm - Enjoy Informal Networking and Light Refreshments before the Celebration
3:30pm to 4:30pm - National First-Gen Celebration and Recognition
Who can attend?
The content is intended for first-generation college students or students who soon
plan to attend a four-year college or university.
Am I first-generation?
If neither of your parents/guardians completed a traditional four-year college degree in the United States - YES! Your first-gen
status is not impacted by other family members' college attendance.
What is the cost to attend?
At this time, we expect no cost to attend any sessions schedule. Meals, parking,
and lodging are on your own.
Do I need to stay the entire time?
Yes, to get the maximum value, you should plan to participate in all portions of the
summit.
Where is the summit?
This event is on the third floor of Downing Student Union on the campus of Western
Kentucky University.
Will meals be provided?
No meals will be provided. Fresh Foods, Starbucks, and other options are available in the building.
What should I wear?
Nice-casual or business-casual attire is recommended. Be sure that your clothing
is comfortable and consider dressing in layers to accommodate temperature variations
from room to room.
How do I request accessibility accommodations?
Indicate that you need accommodations when you complete registration or email us to
let us know.
Are any sessions available remotely?
Stay tuned! Some sessions may be available remotely. We will update this information
based on the session proposals that are received.
TRIO Student Support Services, Disabilities
270-745-5175 270-745-2674 sssd@wku.edu
WKU F1rstGen Initiative
270-745-3920 firstgen@wku.edu
Your story. Your voice. Your move.
Some of the links on this page may require additional software to view.