First Generation Students of the Month

DECEMBER: Blake Wilson

Management Information Systems
Junior, Beaumont

As "First-Gen Proud" at Lamar University, especially as someone from Beaumont who has faced personal challenges like the loss of a father, this experience holds deep significance. It represents a journey of resilience, determination, and personal growth. This opportunity allows me to empower other students to pursue their paths in life, no matter what obstacles they may encounter in the future.

NOVEMBER: Alex Tran

Electrical Engineering
Sophomore, Port Arthur

Being a first-generation student is a testament to resilience. It shows how I have overcome unique challenges and chartered a path where none existed before in my family. This journey represents breaking barriers and setting a powerful example for others in the community.

NOVEMBER: Jesus Mendoza

Management Information Systems
Senior, Laredo

Being a first-generation Latino college student means I am pioneering a path for myself, balancing academic challenges with cultural expectations. It’s a point of immense pride and resilience, reflecting my determination to overcome. I aged out of the foster system at the age of 18 and have faced many challenges since, learning to be independent and responsible being the hardest one. This achievement is not just personal but also a testament to other foster children in the system, that perseverance can lead to overcoming significant obstacles. It’s an honor to be a role model and inspire others to pursue their own dreams.

OCTOBER: Emma Nelson

Interdisciplinary Studies for Social Studies
Sophomore, Lumberton

I carry the pride of being a first-generation college student as a testament of my parents' unwavering support. This pride is rooted in the appreciation of the sacrifices made by my parents that have allowed me to continue my education. Because higher education is accessible to me, I can beat the statistics and be used as a hopeful example for future generations. One thing that I have learned as a first-generation college student is that every obstacle can easily be turned into an opportunity, and that is why I am first-gen proud. 

OCTOBER: Vavah A. Kamasa-Quashie

Psychology
Senior
Fort Worth

I am proud to be first gen because it fuels me to be a better version of myself. By furthering my education, I will be able to provide for myself and my family and be an inspiration to others in my community.

SEPTEMBER: Billy Rash

Business Marketing
Senior, Nederland

College allows people to pave their own way into the world. Being a first-gen college student means teaching yourself how to get into that position. Most of the guidance I have found throughout my life has come from the relationships I have made with those around me. Teachers, coaches, and friends have all become mentors in my path. My relationship with these people is what I am most proud about as a first-gen student.

Advisory Council

Dr. Wilma R. Jackson, Co-Chair
Director, Strategic Initiatives

Andre Favors, Co-Chair
Instructor, Communication and Media

Dr. Gabriel Crosby
Assistant Vice President, Student Success

Pamela Comer
Director, McNair Scholars Program

Shaqueta Lewis
Manager, Workforce Programs, LIT

Dr. Maegan Collins
Chair, LIT General Education and Developmental Studies
Adjunct Faculty, Lamar University

Aaron Hanlin
Associate Director of Recruitment, Office of Admissions

Dr. Ashley Dockens
Assistant Provost, Academic Innovation and Quality Assurance
Associate Dean, Policy and Procedure, College of Graduate Studies

Amy Jones
Coordinator, Center for Teaching and Learning Enhancement

Celine Do
LU Alumni, HR Coordinator, Provost Umphrey Law Firm

Zelda Glenmore
Assistant Director, Housing and Residence Life

Ben Kern
Director, Recreational Sports

Dr. Janeal White
Internship Coordinator and Assistant Professor
Family Studies Program

Dr. Freddie Titus

Vice President, Division of Student Affairs and Strategic Initiatives

Dr. Wilma R. Jackson

Director of Strategic Initiatives
Email:  wjackson10@lamar.edu