CollegeReady celebrates first-generation college students

GREEN BAY – At CollegeReady’s annual celebration last week, every student being recognized shared something in common — each will be the first in their family to earn a college degree.

While the event honored students in grades 6-12 who participated in the college readiness program, CollegeReady’s graduating seniors were celebrated as each one signed their letter of intent to study at their chosen college or university.

“This event is about celebrating what’s possible when first-gen students are supported, encouraged, and empowered to dream bigger,” shared CollegeReady Executive Director Brent Roubal.

“Watching our graduating seniors sign their college letters of intent while younger students look on is incredibly powerful. These students are creating opportunities not only for themselves, but for their families and future generations.”

“For our students and families, this event represents years of hope, sacrifice, and hard work coming together in one moment,” said Roubal. “They’re setting a new standard for what’s possible, and we’re proud to celebrate their achievements and the bright futures they’re building for themselves and for our community.”

With data showing that 31% of new freshmen attending a University of Wisconsin school are first-generation students, CollegeReady aims to help students within the Green Bay Area Public School District become the first person in their family to graduate from college.

Students begin participating in the after-school program in the 6th grade and continue through high school and into college entrance.
Through academic support, college prep, family workshops, service learning, and so much more, CollegeReady breaks down barriers to higher education that exist for many low-income and first-generation students.

This year’s graduates signed letters of intent to attend UW-Green Bay, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC), UW-Milwaukee, UW-Stout, Florida A&M University and the United States military.

“I could feel it when I came in — the energy, the pride, the support and all of that excitement that surrounds you and your families,” John Grant, vice president of student affairs at NWTC, told the graduates. “That doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from families and mentors and organizations like CollegeReady that show up for students every step of the way. You’ve put in the work, you’ve stayed committed and made a decision about what’s next in your life. That’s something to be proud of... A college education truly changes lives and futures and ultimately helps give us all purpose and passion. That’s what this moment represents. It’s not just about starting college. It’s about opening doors — not just for you, but for your families and the people who follow you.”

“Your hard work will benefit you for years to come,” UW-Green Bay Chancellor Michael Alexander told the graduates. “Regardless of what you do in your career, education is something that can never be taken away from you once you have it. I commend you for making the effort to invest in yourself by advancing your education.”

“We are honored to support the students being celebrated through the CollegeReady program and are inspired by their determination to continue their education beyond high school,” Alexander said. “The opportunity to support these students who will be the first in their families to commit to higher education is a privilege and something we take deep pride in at UW-Green Bay.”

“Education has the power to open doors and change the trajectory of a student’s life,” Grant said. “CollegeReady is helping students build confidence in what comes next, and NWTC is proud to help provide pathways that move students from education into meaningful careers and continued opportunity.”