Cal Poly Pomona Celebrates First-Gen Broncos With Community Events, Career Prep, and Campus Resources
More than half of Cal Poly Pomona students are the first in their families to attend college. This November, the university is celebrating that community with its annual First-Gen Celebration, featuring workshops, speakers and social gatherings Nov. 3-5 and 10-12.
As part of the nationwide celebration on Nov. 8 dedicated to first-generation students, faculty, staff and alumni in higher education, Cal Poly Pomona stands among the many institutions joining in this commemoration. Led by the I Am First program, this year’s program coincides with the national celebration on Nov. 8 dedicated to first-generation students, faculty, staff and alumni in higher education.
The I Am First program works to raise visibility of first-gen students on campus and to bring them together with faculty, staff and peers who are also the first in their families to attend college.
CPP defines a first-generation student as one whose natural or adoptive parents did not earn a bachelor’s degree in the United States. Students also qualify if they lived with and were supported by only one parent who did not earn a bachelor’s degree, or if they did not live with or receive support from a natural or adoptive parent. As of fall 2026, 55% of CPP students identify as first-generation, and many faculty and staff members are first-generation graduates as well.
Cynthia L. Alvarez, director of academic engagement and first year success, is looking forward to her first First-Gen Celebration at CPP. This year’s events reflect the university’s commitment to supporting first-gen students at every stage, from their first semester through graduation and beyond, she said.
“I’m excited to join CPP at a time when so many first-gen Broncos, along with the faculty and staff who walk alongside them, are coming together to share their stories,” said Alvarez. “Our goal is to make sure every first-gen student leaves these events feeling connected, supported, and ready for what’s next.”
This year’s celebration also brings the reveal of CPP’s new first-gen banner flags. The banners are displayed on the light poles around campus to commemorate CPP’s first-gen students, faculty, staff and alumni year-round.
All events are free and open to students, faculty, and staff, thanks to support from SoCalGas and campus partners. Visit the I Am First website for more information and to RSVP for the events.
Nov. 3
CPP First-Gen Celebration Resource Fair
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at University Park
Kick off the celebration and meet the campus offices and programs that support first-gen students. Chat with faculty, staff, and fellow first-gen Broncos along the way.
Nov. 4
Unwritten Rules: First-Gen’s Guide to Success
10 to 11 a.m. at the Student Services Building 121, room 1967 and on Zoom
Get a look at the unspoken expectations of college and the workplace and learn how first-gen students can handle them with confidence.
Transfer-able Toolkit: Navigating Campus Culture and Prevention Resources as a Transfer & First-Gen Student
3 to 4:30 p.m. at Bronco Bookstore, room 126
Join Survivor’s Advocacy & Awareness Services for a welcoming session designed for transfer and first-generation students. Learn about campus culture, bystander roles and how to recognize patterns and behaviors of sexual violence, domestic violence and stalking.
Nov. 5
RAMP Book Club
Noon to 12:50 p.m. at Bronco Bookstore, room 126
RAMP’s Fall 2026 Book Club is reading “Solito” by Javier Zamora! Join us for four book club meetings where we offer a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere for folks to discuss literature and work on critical thinking and analysis. Emphasis is placed on connecting readings to broader issues in society.
Ready, Not AI Replaced: What to Do NOW in Order to be Ready for the AI-Impacted Job Market
5 to 7 p.m. Register today, spots are limited!
Join guest speaker Kathy Bakhit for a professional networking event exploring how AI is reshaping the job market. Connect with professionals, gain insights into career opportunities, and discover practical strategies to build the skills and experience employers value. Enjoy a complimentary three-course dinner while preparing for career success after graduation.
Nov. 10
First-Gen on Tap!
5 to 7 p.m. at Innovation Brew Works
Stop by for free food and to learn more about our mentorship program and meet other first-gen students, faculty, and staff in a fun and engaging environment! A total of 20% of the evening’s proceeds will support student scholarships.
Nov. 12
I’m a First-Gen Professional...Now What? Navigating Identity, Politics, and Purpose
2 to 3 p.m. at Building 1, room 214
Join us for a guided conversation exploring the lived experiences of first-generation professionals at Cal Poly Pomona. Participants will be invited to share their truths, perspectives, challenges, and successes as we unpack what it means to navigate professional spaces as a first-generation professional. Together, we will build connection, affirm our experiences, and celebrate the knowledge and strengths first-generation professionals bring to our campus community.