First at Wilkes

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Supporting First-Generation Students

At Wilkes University, we are proud to celebrate and support our first-generation students - the trailblazers who are the first in their families to pursue a four-year college degree. Being first-gen is an incredible achievement, and our goal is to make sure you have the resources, community, and encouragement to thrive.

Through First at Wilkes, you’ll find events, programs, and connections designed to help you succeed academically, socially, and personally. Whether you are a student, faculty or staff member, or supporter, there’s a place here for you to learn, engage, and celebrate what it means to be first-gen.

You are not alone - you are
First at Wilkes!

If you have any questions about support, services or programming for First Generation Students at Wilkes, please contact us!

Tamara Panowicz

Edge Coordinator/Learning Specialist

tamara.panowicz@wilkes.edu email link

Katy Betnar

Executive Director, Office of Academic Success

katy.betnar@wilkes.edu email link

Additional Resources

First Gen Celebration Week: Games, Crafts, & Connections

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 | 4 PM

A part of First Gen Celebration Week – head to the Jean and Paul Adams Commons to relax, play games, get creative with crafts, & enjoy donuts & apple cider with fellow Colonels!

Slices of Success: First-Gen

Monday, November 10, 2025 | 5 PM

Apart of First Gen Celebration Week, Hear from Wilkes faculty, staff & students who were the first in their families to go to college & enjoy free pizza! Held in the JPAC

Snack & Study

Thursday, November 13, 2025 | 11 AM
Thursday, November 20, 2025 | 11 AM
Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 11 AM

Looking for a productive place to get work done between classes? Join us for Snack & Study- a welcoming study space with free drinks and snacks to help you stay focused. Held in Conyngham Hall, room 101 – Colonels Learning Lounge, All are welcome!

Organized by the Office of Student Success.

What Does "First Generation" Mean?

First-generation college students are those whose parents or guardians have not completed a four-year college degree. Being “first-gen” means being the first in your family to take this exciting step toward earning a bachelor’s degree - and that’s something to be proud of!

We celebrate and support first-gen students to ensure that every Colonel feels a strong sense of belonging and has access to the tools and connections needed to thrive. Wilkes is committed to helping first-gen students reach their goals and shape their own paths to success.

Our Mission

The First at Wilkes program aims to support first-generation college students through:

  • Building community and fostering belonging among first-generation students, faculty, and staff.
  • Connecting students with academic, personal, and professional resources early and often.
  • Providing mentorship opportunities that promote growth and belonging.
  • Celebrating the achievements and stories of first-generation Colonels throughout the year.
  • Empower student voices and ensure first-gen Colonels feel seen, valued and supported throughout their college journey.

Fast Facts

  • Approximately 1/3 of college students nationally are first generation.
  • Nearly 50% of Wilkes’ Class of 2024 are the first in their families to attend college.
  • More than 53% of Wilkes' Class of 2025 are first-generation students!
  • First Generation Student Day is celebrated nationwide on Nov. 8, recognizing the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 — landmark legislation that opened doors for first-generation and underrepresented students.