First-generation students represent 17 percent of the CIC’s population. While many navigate higher education without the same family-based guidance or networks their peers may have, they bring a depth of determination, creativity and problem-solving skills that reflect the very heart of journalism, communications and information studies.

Supporting these students isn’t just about helping them persist and graduate — it’s about enriching the entire CIC community through their unique voices and lived experiences. By intentionally designing programs and opportunities that meet their needs, the college is building an environment where every student can thrive.

What the college has done...

• Sent handwritten letters to prospective first-generation students and their parents to build a personal connection with the college.
• Partnered with TRIO/OSP to strengthen collaboration and align CIC outreach with university wide first-generation initiatives.
• Developed a CIC-specific University 101 section tailored to journalism majors.
• Incorporated themes of belonging, resource awareness, and academic confidence, all centered on first-generation identity.

Community-building has been a key focus as well. The college hosted a first-gen basketball game excursion to strengthen connections among students and increase visibility for first-gen support. A celebratory brunch followed, honoring students’ accomplishments and featuring keynote speaker James Bennett, area executive of First Citizens Bank, who shared words of encouragement and empowerment.

For many students, being first-generation is a point of pride and purpose. Academic advisor and co-leader of the first-gen initiative Shannon Blake-Lynch, who is herself first-gen, describes it this way:

Through efforts like those above, the CIC reaffirms its commitment to supporting all students and celebrates the courage, persistence and purpose that define its first-generation community.