The Catholic University of America’s Center for Cultural Engagement (CCE) marked National First-Generation College Celebration Day on Nov. 8 by showcasing students who are making their families proud through their hard-won accomplishments.
CCE Director Javier Bustamante told the crowd of undergraduate students, faculty, and staff gathered at Heritage Hall that the annual event highlights the success stories that exemplify what the Cardinal community is about. As the students shared their experiences, there were few dry eyes in the room.
“I’m the first in my family to graduate from high school, the first to attend college, and I will be the first to be a registered nurse,” said sophomore Khiya Kelly, to cheers and applause from the audience. She served as master of ceremonies for the event with social work sophomore Gaby Pereira Ruano.
The keynote speaker was Columbus School of Law Professor Veryl Miles, who shared what she learned as a first-generation student. She thanked each of the students for their important role in the campus community and for serving as role models for the generation to come.
“Each one of you brings unique experience, perspectives, voices, and gifts that will change the University for the better,” said Miles.
Student speakers shared how Take Flight, a CCE initiative that supports first-generation students’ transition to college life, has had a transformational impact by providing the community and encouragement they need to succeed.
Business administration junior Daneev Imbert said her family “planted the seeds of hope. And today we celebrate the blossoming of the seeds. And I stand here not just as an individual, but as representation of the dreams and aspirations of generations past and to come.” Imbert said through her accomplishments, she can be a role model for her younger sister who is now interested in attending Catholic University.
CCE Assistant Director Natalí Maher, whose primary role is serving Take Flight students, took to the stage to represent student speaker Odalys Campos, who was not able to attend the event. She said the chemistry junior is already working with researchers in her field.
First-year engineering student Kevin Argueta said, “I’ve only been here two months but I’ve already made memories that will be with me the rest of my life.”