First Gen Week is a full week dedicated to celebrating the stories, experiences, and community of first-generation college students at The University of Alabama. We invite you to join us for a series of events to learn from empowering guest speakers, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and connect with a community on campus.
Fall 2026 First Gen Week is November 2 – 7, 2026.
First Gen Week Awards
For First Gen Week 2026, UA First will award two First Gen Awards. The Jackson Watts Moore First Gen Champion Award will recognize faculty and staff members who go above and beyond to support first-generation students at The University of Alabama. The Outstanding First Gen Student Award will recognize undergraduate students who have made a significant impact on campus and the community.
The Jackson Watts Moore First Gen Champion Award honors the legacy of Jackson “Jack” Moore (November 2, 1948 – July 18, 2026), a devoted advocate for student success and a lifelong supporter of The University of Alabama. Although Jack was not a first-generation college student, he became a passionate champion for first-generation students through his commitment to expanding educational opportunities and transforming lives.
Alongside his wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Wilson Moore, Jack and Betty established a first-generation scholarship program to make a University of Alabama education attainable for students who might not otherwise have the resources to attend. Moore Scholars are incoming first-generation students graduating from an Alabama or Tennessee high school. Beyond financial support, the Moore’s have built lasting relationships with scholarship recipients and demonstrated a personal commitment to mentorship, encouragement, and student success.
This award recognizes faculty and staff who embody Jack’s spirit of generosity, advocacy, and dedication to helping first-generation students thrive at UA and beyond.
The Outstanding First Gen Student Award recognizes first-generation students at The University of Alabama who have made extraordinary contributions to campus through academic, extracurricular, or service related activities. For this award, students must:
- be enrolled at The University of Alabama and in good standing as of Fall 2026,
- be an undergraduate student in Fall 2026, and
- be a first-generation college student based on the definition that neither parent has a four-year Bachelor’s degree.
For this award, students may apply for themselves or students, faculty, and staff may nominate a deserving student.
Week at a Glance
Monday, November 2, 2026
Culverhouse Lowder Lecture Series
Time: 2:00-3:00 pm
Location: Hewson Hall 2017
From UA Student to Chancellor: What Does It Really Take to Lead?
Join Sid J. Trant, Chancellor of The University of Alabama System, for an inside look at his career journey, the lessons that shaped him, and what he’s learned about leadership along the way. All students are invited; attire is business casual.
Dance, Dance, First-Gen
Time: 5:00-6:30 pm
Location: UA Student Center, Heritage Room
Dance, connect, and celebrate community! Come learn to line dance, meet new people, and enjoy a fun night of movement and connection. No dance experience needed; just bring yourself and be ready to have a good time.
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
First Gen Sip & Study with the Learning Commons
Time: 3:00-4:00 pm
Location: Russell Hall 200
Meet, mix, and make your own dirty soda! Stop by and meet the Learning Commons professional staff and learn how they can support your academic success. Stick around afterward for a Supplemental Instruction session for BIO 114 or CHEM 104!
Financial Rebellion with Todd Romer
Time: 4:00-5:00 pm
Location: Russell Hall 159
Come hear from financial success coach, author, and founder of Financial Rebellion, Todd Romer, to learn about breaking unhealthy money habits, building financial confidence, and creating a path toward financial freedom. He and his company have helped thousands of people build financial confidence and create a path towards financial freedom.
Financial Roundtables
Time: 5:00-6:00 pm
Location: Russell Hall, First Floor Lobby
Let’s talk money, resources, and your future! Join fellow first-generation students for an interactive networking event with campus and community partners. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, discover helpful resources, and gain practical tips for managing your finances, maximizing your college experience, and planning for life after graduation in roundtable fashion.
Special Guests: Regions Bank, Riverbank, UA Health Promotion & Wellness, Mrs. Latrisa Pugh Griffin
Wednesday, November 4, 2026
First Gen Breakfast with C&IS
Time: 9:15-10:45 am
Location: Reese Phifer 180
Fuel up for the day! Join C&IS faculty and staff for a come-and-go morning gathering designed to celebrate and support first-generation students. Enjoy breakfast, make connections, and start your day with a strong sense of community.
First Gen Tigers and Tide: From Campus to Career Panel
Time: 5:00- 6:30 pm
Location: Register for the Zoom link!
Join us for a virtual alumni panel and networking event! Alumni from Louisiana State University and The University of Alabama will come together to reflect on their journeys from college to the workforce. Through candid conversations about lessons learned while navigating life as a “first,” panelists will offer inspiration and advice for the next generation of first-gen students.
Thursday, November 5, 2026
Share Our Stories
Time: 12:00- 2:00 pm
Location: UA Student Center, 3104
Celebrate first-gen voices as students share inspiring stories about their journey to college, their experiences at UA, and the power of community, perseverance, and resilience. In partnership with TRIO and Alabama REACH, this lunch event provides an opportunity to connect, reflect, and honor the unique experiences that shape the first-generation student journey. Faculty, staff, and administrators are encouraged to attend!
First Gen Speak Easy & Art Show
Time: 5:00-7:00 pm
Location: Russell Hall 300
Art tells a story. So do we. Discover the talents of first-generation students through an evening of visual art, poetry, spoken word, and storytelling. This event celebrates the creativity, experiences, and voices that make our first-gen community unique. Want to participate in the art show or speaking portion of the event? Submit your art to be considered by October 26!
Friday, November 6, 2026
First Gen Friday Celebration
Time: 12:00-2:00 pm
Location: UA Student Center, Great Hall
Join us for a First Gen Friday Celebration with Dreamland BBQ and an opportunity to connect with fellow first-generation students, faculty and staff. The First Gen Awards will be announced during the First Gen Friday event to recognize nominees and award winners.
Saturday, November 7, 2026
Alabama vs. LSU Watch Party with University Programs
Time: Doors Open One Hour before kickoff
Location: UA Student Center, Theater
Can't travel to Baton Rouge, LA, with the Tide? Join UP for the Alabama vs LSU Watch Party! Learn more at mysource.ua.edu.
