Texarkana College held a luncheon Thursday, Nov. 5, to celebrate its first-generation students. The event was held in conjunction with National First-Generation College Celebration Day and was held in the Pinkerton Center Gym. Its theme was "Built for This." The college said about 66% of its students identify as first-generation college students.
Lee Williams III, the college's dean of Student Life and event organizer, said the theme reminds students that they have the strength and ability to overcome challenges. The featured speaker, Terry L. Taylor, is a retired educator who spent 40 years in education. According to the event program, Taylor told students, "You may be the first, but you do not have to be the last."
The college recognized recipients of TRIO-EOC Overcoming Barriers Scholarships and TRIO-SSS Academic Scholarships. Student leaders Lizette Hernandez, Student Government Association president, and Randi Miller, SGA vice president, spoke at the event. The Student Life Unsung Hero Award went to the college's Facilities team.