(Whittier, Calif.) – Río Hondo College (RHC) proudly announces First-Gen Week, a special celebration from Nov. 4–7, 2024, to honor the achievements, resilience and contributions of students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education. Events throughout the week are open to the public, and the College invites students, families, educators and residents of surrounding communities to join the festivities.

Through dynamic events and meaningful conversations, First-Gen Week is designed to empower first-generation students, connect them with the broader community and highlight education’s critical role in transforming lives.

The goal is to celebrate students and build a support network, ensuring they feel valued and uplifted on their academic journeys.

The week’s events on the Río Hondo College Campus include:

First-Gen Fest on Monday, Nov. 4
Location: Lower Quad / Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
This will be a celebration honoring the resilience of first-generation college students. At this celebratory event, there will be free tacos for the first 200 attendees, an interactive resource fair showcasing critical support programs, and live music by Banda AZ—the official band of the Los Angeles Chargers.

First-Gen Votes Booth on Tuesday, Nov. 5
Location: Upper Quad / Time: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
This event serves as a call to action for civic engagement, encouraging students to participate in shaping their futures through voting. Free election survival kits— complete with snacks, wellness items and voting information—will be distributed to help students manage the stress of the election season while staying engaged. The voices of students matter.

Redefining Career Success Panel on Wednesday, Nov. 6
Location: Learning Resource Center 128 / Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
This activity will feature first-gen professionals from various industries who will share their journey, discuss the challenges of navigating non-linear paths and offer practical advice on building confidence in competitive fields. Panelists will also explore how students can redefine success on their terms, moving beyond societal expectations and aligning personal values with professional goals. Following the discussion, there will be networking opportunities.

Barbershop Joint with Dr. Earic Dixon-Peters, Vice President/Assistant Superintendent for Student Services at Río Hondo College on Thursday, Nov. 7
Location: L-Tower, 5th Floor, Board Room / Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
This event offers self-identified male students space for open and thoughtful discussions about community, identity and personal growth. The conversation will highlight the challenges and rewards of being a first-generation student, focusing on the experiences of men of color. Participants will explore strategies for balancing cultural expectations, personal identity and the importance of mental health and emotional well-being. This session aims to foster mentorship, solidarity and support while addressing the stigmas surrounding mental health in underrepresented communities. To enhance the experience, the first 50 students will receive free Raising Cane’s chicken, and free haircuts will be provided for the first 30 participants.

First-Gen Week at Río Hondo College reflects the institution’s deep commitment to equity, inclusion and student success. First-generation students bring unique perspectives, determination and resilience to the campus, often balancing their academic goals with personal and family responsibilities. By celebrating their achievements, the College seeks to recognize their contributions and reaffirm its mission to create an environment where every student can thrive.

Río Hondo College invites the community to participate in First-Gen Week and celebrate the power of education. Parking is available on campus for $3 per day. To access the College map, please click here. Questions about First-Gen Week can be directed to the Student Success Center at (562) 463-6650.