I was First, too!
The Office of Inclusion & Belonging is thrilled to launch the "I Was First, Too" initiative! We aim to honor and assist first-generation students by showcasing the experiences and insights of GCSU administrators, faculty, and staff who understand their journey.
Why It Matters:
- Some students may feel out of place or struggle to find a sense of community on campus, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Some experience a lack of college readiness, financial stability, and familial support, which adversely affects their ability to remain enrolled.
- Your story can help them feel welcome, capable, and connected.
Ways to Participate:
- Be featured in our “I Was First Too” poster series or social media
- Display a door badge to make your support visible
- Share a short quote or story about your first-gen journey
- Join a panel, event, or mentorship list for interested students
First-Gen Ally?
- If you are not First-Gen, you’re welcome too! Join by displaying a First-Gen Ally door hanger and offering support.
How to Join and Receive Your Door Hanger: Please complete this brief form.
For more information, contact OIB at 478-445-8520.
MLK COMMEMORATION
Every January, the Georgia College & State University Cultural Center and the Office of Inclusion & Belonging celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The theme for our 9th annual event was “Echoes of MLK: Activism, Disobedience, and Rights in the 21st Century”. The commemoration featured a breakfast ceremony on Friday, Jan. 17 in Magnolia Ballroom. The breakfast was highlighted by area Baldwin County K-12 students who presented their award-winning essays and artistic renderings to reflect this year's theme.
Dinner with 12 Strangers
During the fall and spring semesters, we curate dinners that include a delicious meal, fun icebreakers, personal introductions, and engaging conversations about how we can make GCSU a more welcoming community for all. Twelve selected individuals from all areas of campus will be invited to be one of the twelve strangers who meet for dinner.
Dinner guests are selected on a first-come, first-served basis and are notified at least one week in advance of the scheduled dinner. We look forward to sharing a meal with you as we discuss ideas of creating and maintaining a strong sense of community on campus.
