SKYCTC Receives $5,000 National Grant to Celebrate First-Generation College Students

SKYCTC Student Support Specialist Heather LaRue (left) and Dr. Chris George Director of External Education Programs (right) represent SKYCTC, receiving a $5,000 grant from TIAA-CREF, First Gen Forward and the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) to celebrate First Gen student of the College.

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) has been awarded a $5,000 First-Generation College Celebration Grant from TIAA-CREF, First Gen Forward and the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) to recognize and celebrate students who are the first in their families to pursue a college education.

SKYCTC was one of only five institutions in the top-tier category selected for First-Generation College Celebration Grant. SKYCTC was also the only community college in the top tier and the only institution from Kentucky selected across all categories, highlighting the college's commitment to supporting first-generation students and helping them achieve their educational and career goals.

The funding will support SKYCTC's First-Generation College Celebration, scheduled for Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the college's Main Campus in Bowling Green. The event will recognize the accomplishments of first-generation students while connecting them with resources, encouragement and opportunities for continued success.

"Our first-generation students bring incredible determination to SKYCTC every day," said Dr. George, Executive Director of TRIO & Title III. "This grant lets us show them how proud we are of what they're accomplishing, and remind them that they don't have to do it alone."

The grant was secured through the efforts of Heather LaRue, SKYCTC Retention & Resource Coordinator and grant writer, with leadership from Dr. George.

"Being first in your family to go to college can feel like stepping into the unknown," said LaRue. "We're grateful to First Gen Forward and COE for helping us celebrate these students and connect them with the support that helps them finish strong."

The First-Generation College Celebration is a national initiative held annually to recognize the achievements, experiences and contributions of first-generation college students. The initiative also raises awareness of the challenges these students may face and the importance of providing resources that support their academic success.

SKYCTC's November 10 celebration will feature personal stories from first-generation students, faculty and staff, an open mic session, a panel discussion featuring first-generation college graduates and student success advocates, and opportunities for students to connect with campus support services. Speakers at the event will include three members of the Fant family: Chasity, a first-generation student who played basketball at WKU, George, a 10-year NFL veteran and entrepreneur, and Kimberly, a former athlete, and the mother of George Fant.  

The celebration will take place in the Social Staircase Lobby of Building L on SKYCTC's Main Campus. The event will include the awarding of a $200 scholarship opportunity provided by Fifth Third Bank.

First Gen Forward works with colleges and universities nationwide to advance first-generation student success through research, professional development and institutional partnerships. The Council for Opportunity in Education advocates for educational access and opportunity, including support for federal TRIO programs that help first-generation and low-income students pursue and complete postsecondary education.

Through its TRIO programs, academic advising, student support services and other initiatives, SKYCTC remains committed to helping first-generation students overcome barriers, build confidence and successfully complete their educational journeys.