First Gen Professionals

UMKC is proud to have such a vibrant first-generation student community, with over 57% of our first time college students identifying as first gen! We couldn’t achieve our goals without the support of first-generation professionals in the KC community who are dedicated to helping our students succeed.

Upcoming Events


Lunch with a First Gen Scholar

Career Services and First Gen Roo invite first-generation professionals to share their experiences and inspire our students. Join us for a series of lunch events where you can connect with UMKC students, offer guidance, and build lasting relationships.

Event Details:

  • Wednesday, October 16, Noon - 1:00 PM
  • Thursday, November 14, Noon - 1:00 PM

Who should attend: First-generation college graduates interested in mentoring and supporting UMKC first gen students. We encourage alumni participation, but it is not a requirement.

What to expect: Informal lunch gatherings where students can ask questions and connect with professionals. We anticipate 50-150 students at each event and seek 5-10 professionals per session. Share your story, offer advice, and be open to connecting with students on LinkedIn or through other means.

Interested? Please click the button below to sign up. If you have any questions or want to discuss this opportunity in more detail, please contact Goldie Gildehaus at goldieagildehaus@sen35.com.

Sign up for Lunch with a First Gen Scholar


First Gen Futures

Join us for First Gen Futures, a panel discussion where you can share your experiences and insights with UMKC first-generation students. Your guidance and mentorship can make a significant impact on their professional journeys.

Event Details:

  • Thursday, October 24, 11:30 AM -12:30 PM
  • Tuesday, November 19, 11:30 AM -12:30 PM

Who should attend: First-generation college graduates eager to mentor and support UMKC first-generation college students. Alumni are encouraged to participate, though it's not mandatory. We are seeking 3-5 professionals from various fields for each panel.

What to expect: As a panelist, you'll share your career journey, offer advice on overcoming the unique challenges first gen students face, and help them better understand pathways to their career goals. You'll also have the chance to network with other professionals and make a lasting impact on First Gen Roos.

Interested? Please click the button below to sign up. If you have any questions or want to discuss this opportunity in more detail, please email Sadie Billings at sadie.billings@sen35.com.

Sign up for First Gen Futures


First Generation Alumni Alliance

We invite alumni who identify as first-generation college students to join the First Gen Alumni Alliance.


Mission & Vision

The First Generation Alumni Alliance (FGAA) is dedicated to empowering and supporting first-generation college students. We strive to foster a strong, inclusive community of alumni who share a commitment to lifelong learning, mentorship, and advocacy. The FGAA will celebrate the unique journeys of first generation graduates, provide valuable resources and networking opportunities, and create pathways for future generations to achieve academic and professional success.

Get involved in the First Generation Alumni Alliance