The event will recognize the achievements and resilience of students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education while connecting students and families with resources for college preparation, financial aid, career exploration, and other support services.

“As a first-generation college graduate myself, I know how life-changing the opportunity to pursue higher education can be,” said Dr. Anita Borja Enriquez, UOG President. “Education is a powerful driver of social mobility. It shaped my future and opened doors to opportunities I might not otherwise have had. We want every student to know that, with the right support and encouragement, they too can achieve their goals.”

Hosted by UOG's Educational Talent Search, Upward Bound, and Student Support Services programs, the celebration will feature testimonials from first-generation college students and alumni, student performances, games, entertainment, and information booths hosted by community organizations.

The celebration is being held in recognition of National First-Generation College Celebration Day, observed annually on Nov. 8 to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded federal support for higher education.

At UOG, the three federally funded TRIO programs provide free educational support services to help eligible students overcome barriers to higher education and prepare for academic and career success.

Educational Talent Search serves students in grades eight through 12 and eligible individuals returning to education, offering tutoring, academic support, career exploration, financial literacy, and guidance on college preparation, apprenticeships, and industry credentials.

Upward Bound helps high school students prepare for college through tutoring, college and financial aid application assistance, career exploration, and a six-week summer program at UOG that includes opportunities to earn Guam Department of Education summer credits.

Student Support Services assists eligible UOG students with tutoring, academic advising, financial aid guidance, financial literacy, career exploration, and study skills to support their progress toward graduation.

Together, the programs help students build the academic skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to pursue higher education, career training, and workforce opportunities.

“First-generation college students bring determination, talent, and valuable perspectives to their schools and communities,” said Rowie Andrade, director of UOG's TRIO Upward Bound program. “This celebration is an opportunity to recognize their accomplishments and connect them with the support and resources that can help them reach their goals. It is also to raise awareness, build community, and highlight federal programs like TRIO that support low-income and first-generation college students.”

Community organizations will also participate in the celebration, offering information and assistance to students and families. Participating organizations include:

• Bank of Guam
• Catholic Social Services
• Civil Law Center (Elder Justice Center/The Advocacy Center)
• Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS)
• DPHSS Division of Children's Wellness – Bureau of Child Care Services
• Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center (GBHWC), including Child and Adolescent Services and I Famagu'on-Ta
• Guam Community College – REACH Program
• Mañe'lu – Micronesian Resource Center
• University of Guam
• UOG AmeriCorps
• UOG Enrollment Management & Student Success
• WestCare Pacific Islands (Sanctuary)

The event will begin at 10 a.m., on Saturday, Nov. 7, with welcoming remarks and testimonials scheduled from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., followed by games, entertainment, and community resource activities through 1 p.m.

Representatives from all three UOG TRIO programs will be available to answer questions about eligibility, services, and enrollment in their respective programs, as well as accept applications.

The celebration is free and open to the public. Students, families, and community members are encouraged to attend.

For more information about UOG's TRIO Programs, visit https://www.uog.edu/trio-program/.

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