Proud to be first.

First-Generation Celebration Week

Nov. 2-6, 2026

The University at Buffalo proudly honors our first-generation college students, faculty and staff. Join us as we recognize their success and achievements during First-Generation Celebration Week!

Monday, Nov.2

  • Paint-a-Bull
    7 a.m.  |  Outside the Student Union.
    Help make our mark on campus! Join us outside the SU and dress warmly; it may be chilly!
  • Speaking on Firsts, presented by Tomás A. Aguirre, Salma Attai, Rubén A. González  and Hon. E. Jeannette Ogden
    4-5 p.m. in 330 Student Union, followed by a reception from 5-6 p.m. in 235 Student Union
    Join us in welcoming first-generation professionals as they share their journeys of success. All are welcome to attend!

Tuesday, Nov. 3

  • Grow Through What You Go Through
    1-3 p.m. in 145A Student Union
    Take a break and get creative! Join us for a hands-on activity where you’ll make your own plant friend and reflect on the importance of self-care, growth and giving yourself grace. Just like plants, we all need a little care to thrive.
  • First-Gen Forward with Career Design Center and Alumni Engagement
    4-6 p.m. in 215 Student Union, Social Hall
    Celebrate our first-gen community with speed networking, conversations, free food, professional headshots and swag. Register now!

Wednesday, Nov. 4

  • Hear Our Stories: A First-Gen Student Panel
    11 a.m.-1 p.m. in 107 Capen Hall
    Hear from UB students across different majors about what it means to be first-gen. Refreshments provided. 
  • Graduate Game Night
    4-5 p.m. in Harriman Hall Fireside Lounge
    Let the games begin! Unwind, connect with others and enjoy social hour featuring board games, cards and more!

Thursday, Nov. 5

  • Carnival Day
    3-5 p.m. in 215 Student Union, Social Hall
    Step right up and take a break from the semester! Enjoy carnival games, fun activities and a chance to connect with fellow first-gen students. Bring your friends and show your first-gen pride!
  • Written Beginnings – A Journaling Event
    5-6 p.m. in Richmond Quadrangle Main Lounge
    Explore new journaling styles, decorate your own journal and share your process with others! Supplies are limited.

Friday, Nov. 6

  • Proud To Be First Celebration Reception
    4-5 p.m. in Capen Hall, Compass Lobby, first floor
    Celebrate the end of First-Generation Celebration Week and enjoy refreshments with your fellow UB community! 

Sponsored by Alumni Engagement, Campus Living, Career Design Center, McNair Scholars Program, Office of Inclusive Excellence, Student Support Services and Tutoring & Academic Support Services. 

UB's Paint-The-Bull is painted with #UBFirstGen.

UB students paint the bull outside the Student Union to show their support for first-generation students.