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First-Generation Graduates Celebrated at Pinning Ceremony

First-Generation public health students who will graduate at the upcoming Spring 2024 Convocation were presented with ‘first-gen’ recognition pins by faculty to honor and celebrate their  achievements. 


First-Generation public health students who will graduate at the upcoming Spring 2024 Convocation were presented with ‘first-gen’ recognition pins by faculty  to honor and celebrate their achievements. The College defines first-generation students as those who are the first in their families to graduate with a baccalaureate degree, masters degree, or doctoral degree.

More than 100 first-generation public health students are graduating this spring, and more than 30 participated in the pinning ceremony. It was an inspiring and emotional event for everyone who attended.

Velia Leybas Nuño, PhD, led the ceremony with a welcome from Iman Hakim, MBBCh, PhD, MPH. Four faculty members including Paloma Beamer, PhD, John Ehiri, PhD, MPH, MSc, Martha Moore-Monroy, EdD, MA, and Tomas Nuño, PhD, presented the students with their pins. Many family, staff, and faculty attended virtually and in-person. After receiving their pins, each  student said a few words, often thanking family, friends, God, and specific faculty members such as Dr. Moore-Monroy and Dr. Antonio Rubio.

We want to thank everyone who contributed to the college’s inaugural First-Generation Pinning Ceremony. We invite you see photos of the event and share this story with friends and family.

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