JJC Awarded $2,500 Grant for First Generation College Student Celebration Inititative

Joliet Junior College (JJC) is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $2,500 grant for the 2026 First-Generation College Celebration initiative. This grant, provided by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and FirstGen Forward, with support from TIAA, will help JJC expand its efforts to recognize, support and celebrate first-generation college students across the college community.

"At JJC, we want our first-generation students to know that their experiences, strengths and stories matter," said Tonetta Jones, manager of TRIO Student Support Services. "This grant gives us an opportunity to celebrate their achievements while strengthening the sense of belonging, acknowledging their resilience and support services that helps students continue moving toward their goals,"

The First-Generation College Celebration, observed annually on Nov. 8, highlights the experiences and achievements of first-generation students while addressing the systemic barriers they face in higher education. Launched by COE and FirstGen Forward in 2017, the First-Generation College Celebration is now a marquee event at campuses across the country.

JJC will hold its 2026 First-Generation Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 5, with additional activities leading up to the celebration. By receiving this grant, JJC reaffirms its dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

COE President Kimberly Jones, J.D., emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, "First-generation college students bring unique perspectives and resilience to our campuses. This grant empowers institutions like Joliet Junior College to continue providing the necessary resources and support for these students to thrive."

Stephanie Bannister, Ph.D., president of FirstGen Forward, the center for first-generation student success, expressed her enthusiasm:

"We are deeply grateful to partner with Joliet Junior College and institutions across the country in advancing the success of first-generation college students. We extend our sincere appreciation to TIAA for their generous support of this grant - an opportunity to catalyze meaningful, lasting impact for students and the communities they call home."

What started as a one-day celebration has grown into week- and month-long momentum builders, leading to yearlong first-generation student success initiatives, from first-generation student conferences to faculty development, social media campaigns and podcast series. JJC continues its participation in the First-Generation College Celebration and looks forward to bringing greater visibility to first-generation students, staff, faculty and alumni.

The First-Generation College Celebration has united hundreds of college campuses across the country for an often-overlooked population through numerous events, including student rallies, faculty-led panel discussions, artistic performances and more, in recognition of first-generation students, administrators, faculty and alumni.

For more information about Joliet Junior College's initiatives for first-generation college students, please contact Tonetta Jones at [email protected].