Dive into stories of resilience and the determination of UW-Whitewater’s first-generation college students at the pop-up exhibition “First-Gen College CELEBRATION.” This exhibit is hosted by the UW-Whitewater First-Generation Team in commemoration of the accomplishments of first-generation Warhawks. This exhibit begins on Nov. 4 and will be on display outside Roberta’s Art Gallery until Nov. 8.
“First-Gen College CELEBRATION” presents personal stories, quotes, and experiences from current first-gen students, as well as faculty, staff, and alumni. Also on display will be individual portrait photographs taken by Craig Schreiner, UW-Whitewater photographer. Included in the exhibit are Xitlaly Antonio, biology major; Isabelle Clowes, pre-nursing major; Brian Flores-Cordova, double major in marketing and finance; Glenn Hayes, director of bands; Terri Jones, King/Chávez Program coordinator; Jenny Krzyszkowski, director of First Year Experience; Corey A. King, chancellor; Joshua Reed, Career Services director; and Holly Wayne, marketing alumnus.
This exhibit recognizes the efforts made at the National First-Generation College Celebration (FGCC) which officially takes place on Nov. 8 to raise awareness and visibility for first-gen students. According to FGCC, there is a 54% national rate of first-gen undergraduate students. At UW-Whitewater, 36% of students are first-gen, and at UW-Rock County campus, 54% are first-gen.
The exhibit reception will take place on Monday, Nov. 4, from noon to 2 p.m. to kick off the week of the celebration and recognition of first-generation students. Chancellor King and others will share brief remarks beginning at noon, and light refreshments will be served. For more about first-generation students at Whitewater, view the website.
Roberta’s Art Gallery is located on the first floor of the James R. Connor University Center at 190 Hamilton Green Way, Whitewater, Wis. The gallery collaborates with campus departments, student organizations, and community artists in coordinating and sponsoring exhibits. Roberta’s Art Gallery’s hours are Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The gallery is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
At Roberta’s Art Gallery, we pride ourselves in providing free and open exhibits to the public, and attending certain events can earn students class credit. If you are interested in being featured in the gallery, please contact us for a proposal request. Reach us at ucart@uww.edu or 262-472-3193. Visit our website for any questions or inquiries, and follow our Instagram @uww_rag.
