Texarkana College Celebrates First-Generation College Students at Annual Luncheon

Texarkana College celebrated its first-generation students Thursday, November 5, with a luncheon honoring the determination, perseverance and accomplishments of students who are paving the way for themselves and future generations. Held in conjunction with National First-Generation College Celebration Day, this year's event centered on the theme “Built for This.”

Approximately 66% of Texarkana College students identify as first-generation college students. The luncheon brought students, faculty and staff together to recognize their accomplishments and highlight the importance of providing support, mentorship and resources to help students achieve their educational goals.

“At Texarkana College, 66% of our students identify as first-generation, and we are proud to celebrate their resilience, determination, and achievements. This year’s theme, ‘Built for This,’ reminds our students that they have the strength and ability to overcome challenges and achieve excellence. We want every first-generation student to know they belong, they are supported, and they are built for success,” said Lee Williams III, Dean of Student Life at Texarkana College and event organizer.

The featured speaker was Terry L. Taylor, a retired educator, longtime student advocate, leadership mentor, and proud first-generation college graduate who dedicated 40 years to education. Taylor also previously served on the Texarkana College Board of Trustees.

 The program included the presentation of two special awards: the Student Life Unsung Hero Award and the TRIO-Education Opportunity Center (EOC) Partnership Award. The college also recognized recipients of the TRIO-EOC Overcoming Barriers Scholarships and TRIO- Student Support Services (SSS) Academic Scholarships, including student leaders Lizette Hernandez, Student Government Association president, and Randi Miller, SGA vice president.

“Being a first-generation student has come with challenges, but each obstacle has helped me grow,” said Hernandez, a recipient of a TRIO-EOC Overcoming Barriers Scholarship. “To me, ‘Built for This’ means that even when the journey is difficult, I am capable of overcoming barriers and achieving my goals. Texarkana College has provided me with support, resources and encouragement that have helped me succeed.”

Ashley Childs, Coordinator/Educational Specialist - TRIO Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) with Lizette Hernandez

Miller, a recipient of both a TRIO-EOC Overcoming Barriers Scholarship and a TRIO-SSS Academic Scholarship, said, “I started college with dreams bigger than my circumstances. Today, I graduate knowing that I didn't just change my life. I changed what is possible for the generations after me.”

Ashley Childs with Randi Miller

Additional recipients of the TRIO-EOC Overcoming Barriers Scholarship included Breonnie Easter, Emily Boyd, Seoren Neroes, Tanekka Brown, Aliana Lewis, and Tashara Partee.

Additional recipients of the TRIO-SSS Academic Scholarship included Casey Arnold, Kara Duff, D’Kihya Cooper, Ryan Edmonds, Baylee Crosby, Mary Elliot, and Korey Davis.

The Student Life Unsung Hero Award was presented to Texarkana College’s Facilities team, while the TRIO-EOC Partnership Award recognized the Bowie County Women’s Center.

The awards and scholarships recognize students, individuals and organizations who embody this year’s “Built for This” theme through their dedication to overcoming barriers, creating opportunities, and supporting first-generation student success.

National First-Generation College Celebration Day is observed annually on November 8, bringing colleges and universities across the country together to recognize the accomplishments and contributions of first-generation students.

Through its continued commitment to student success, Texarkana College works to ensure first-generation students have the resources, encouragement, and opportunities they need to achieve their educational and career goals. For more information about TRIO programs at Texarkana College, visit HERE.