SKYCTC to Celebrate First-Generation College Students with Stories of Success, Scholarship Presentation

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) will recognize the achievements, determination and inspiring journeys of first-generation college students during its First Gen Day Celebration on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Social Staircase Lobby of Building L on the college's Main Campus.

The free event will feature personal stories from first-generation students, faculty, staff, and alumni, along with panel discussions, a $200 scholarship presentation sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, lunch, giveaways, and opportunities to connect with campus and community resources.

First-generation students, defined as those whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree, often face unique challenges while navigating higher education. The celebration will highlight their accomplishments and the support systems that help them succeed.

"Being the first in your family to attend college is an accomplishment worth celebrating," said SKYCTC Chancellor Dr. Michelle Trawick. "Our first-generation students demonstrate tremendous determination and perseverance as they pursue their educational goals. Their stories inspire others and remind us of the life-changing opportunities that education can provide."

The celebration begins at 10 a.m. with welcoming remarks by Dr. Brooke Justice, Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management & Student Services, followed by an open microphone session from 10:30 a.m. to noon, introduced by Dr. Stephanie Hyman, Dean of Administrative Services at SKYCTC, during at which time first-generation students, faculty and staff will share their personal experiences, challenges and successes.

A First-Generation Panel Discussion from 12:15 to 1 p.m. will feature Dr. Martina A. Martin of First Gen Forward; Alex Smith, a military veteran and SKYCTC alumnus; Lashlee Anthony, Fifth Third Bank branch manager, SKYCTC alumna; and Kaden, a current SKYCTC first-generation student. Chastity Fant will end the Open Mic period, sharing her first gen story of being the first in her family to graduate from college while balancing being a WKU Lady Hilltopper who ranks 4th in career scoring. Moderated by Dr. Chris George, the discussion will focus on overcoming obstacles, navigating college and achieving personal and professional success.

A fireside chat featuring George and Kim Fant, moderated by Finley Baird, will follow from 1 to 2 p.m.

At 2 p.m., Lashlee Anthony will present a $200 scholarship sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, recognizing and supporting a SKYCTC student's educational journey. Door prize winners will also be announced.

Throughout the day, attendees can visit campus and community resource tables, receive free First Gen T-shirts and stickers, participate in interactive activities, and sign a First Gen Proud banner. Boxed lunches will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. while supplies last.

The celebration will extend beyond the main event, with First Gen T-shirts available for first-generation student veterans on Veterans Day, November 11. SKYCTC will also recognize first-generation incarcerated students through a special jail visit and T-shirt distribution.

The event is part of First Gen Days 2026, supported through a Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) grant, with appreciation to Fifth Third Bank and First Gen Forward.

Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Time: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. CST
Location: Social Staircase Lobby, Building L, SKYCTC Main Campus, 1845 Loop Drive, Bowling Green, KY
Cost: Free

Attendees are encouraged to share their first-generation pride on social media using #1stgenproud #skyctc #trioworks.