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A symphony of languages filled the lobby as families gathered at the Sandra Levine Theatre to celebrate their loved ones at ��������’ first-generation graduation ceremony on May 5. The ceremony was an emotional tribute to the hard work and determination of these students, the first in their families to earn college degrees.

“Today we celebrate you – our first-generation graduates! As first-gen graduates, you have faced obstacles that others may not have experienced. You may have had to navigate a complex financial aid system, balance work and school responsibilities, and overcome feelings of Imposter Syndrome,” said Johanna Mercado, assistant director for leadership programming. “For some, it may have been finding the balance of supporting your families while also enjoying the college experience. You represent years of hard work, dedication and sacrifice. You have persevered and have made it to this day!”

The keynote address was given by �������� alumna Andrea McCrary, Ph.D., assistant professor of English at �������� University and first-generation student. “I offer my thanks to you and your families because as much as you’ve been thinking about what �������� has given you, I’m thinking about what you have given ��������,” said McCrary. “What you have brought to �������� has made us better. You remind us that the power of higher education provides transformative possibilities for all of us.”

The first student address was given by Lizeth Pastrana Fuentes ’23. “As a first-generation student, graduating is not just our accomplishment, but that of our families who have supported us throughout our academic journeys,” said Fuentes. “My family has sacrificed so much to give me the life and opportunities they never had. We belong here, we are good enough, we have worked hard and we deserve to be celebrated.”

Marta Pineda ’23 delivered her address in Spanish, congratulating the class on their hard work and thanking her family for the sacrifices they made and for their endless support throughout her time at ��������.

Nanii Ellis, director of academic support services presented the 2023 Pillar of Support Award to Yvette Clifton, Ph.D., assistant director of biology and chemistry. This award, presented annually, is given to a faculty or staff member that has shown consistent dedication and unwavering support to first-generation students. “Dr. Clifton is a pillar within the �������� community and wears her first-gen identity proudly,” said Ellis. “She leads with love and grace and sees the potential in students while expertly guiding them on the path toward academic excellence and self-discovery.”

Kristina Siarzynski-Ferrer, Ed.D., associate dean for student success presented The Becoming Student Awards, inspired by the memoir of former first lady Michelle Obama, a first-generation student. The awards were presented to Elodie Deneassembaye ‘23, co-founder and president of the first-generation club and Julia Castiglione ‘23, co-founder and vice president of the first-generation club.

The ceremony was one of three celebrating our uniquely diverse student body. In April, the university held Multicultural and Lavender Graduation Ceremonies. These ceremonies reinforce ��������’ commitment to fostering a culture that promotes inclusion, diversity, equity and access for students, faculty, staff and the community around us.

Visit the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) website to learn more about how DEI is an important part of ��������’ plan to transform into the national comprehensive private university of Charlotte.