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UT’s First-Gen College Celebration Week Kickoff in Photos

UT first gen celebration week 2021

On Monday, Nov. 8, our First-Gen Equity program joined the university-wide First-Generation College Celebration Week kickoff event on the East Mall. Complete with a DJ, photo booth, keynote speakers and a special visit from Hook ‘Em, the event honored our vast community of students who will be the first in their families to earn a four-year degree or higher from a college or university.

Featured below are a few snapshots from the big event. You can also hear first-gen Longhorns share their experiences in this latest episode of Living the Longhorn Life, a podcast hosted by the Vice President for Student Affairs.


Students from colleges and schools across the university gather on the East Mall to mix, mingle and enjoy a catered dinner.

First Gen Longhorns on the UT East Mall

First Gen Longhorns 2021 Celebration

students on East Mall First Gen Celebration


Students captured memories on film, posing with festive props and showing their school pride with Hook ‘Em.

First Gen Photo Booth celebration

two students in First Gen Longhorns photo booth

first gen longhorn students with hook em


Faculty and staff, many of whom are first-gen college graduates, join in on the festivities to network with students and show their support.

image of first gen faculty and staff

UT first gen faculty and staff celebration event


Visit the First-Gen Equity and the First-Gen Longhorns websites to learn more about their efforts to uplift and support the university’s first-gen community.