First in family, first to Lynchburg
The University of Lynchburg is committed to the success of our first-generation students.
There’s something special about being first. The first in flight, first person on the moon, the
first African-American president. First impressions, first place, and being among the first in
your family to attend and graduate from college is special too!
We value the contributions of our first-gen students, faculty, staff, administration, and alumni.
And we celebrate them too! At Lynchburg, we define first-gen as anyone whose parent or
guardian did not obtain a four-year college degree.
Alpha Alpha Alpha National Honor Society
In March 2019, the University of Lynchburg established Virginia’s first Tri-Alpha Honor Society chapter for first-generation college students. Members include students, faculty, staff, and administrators. To qualify, students must have 30+ credit hours and a GPA of 3.2 or higher.
National First-Generation College Student Day
National First-Generation College Student Day, celebrated on Nov. 8, honors those who are the first in their families to attend college. It raises awareness of the challenges they face and highlights the need for support and resources. The date marks the 1965 signing of the Higher Education Act, which expanded federal financial aid and college funding.
Student
Spotlights
Ariel Lineberry ’22
“At Lynchburg, you’ll find endless resources and people willing to help you with any questions you may have. It’s a community ready to welcome anyone, with plenty of opportunities to become a leader.”
Desmond Harvey ’24
“I wish all first-generation students knew that there will always be people here who care about helping you. Whether it’s finding an advisor or getting your questions answered, there is always someone at Lynchburg ready to guide and support you.”
Madi Shea ’22
“Lynchburg gives first-gen students all the resources they need to accomplish anything they want. There are so many different ways to get involved. It’s truly a place where everyone can find their home.”
Mallory Yowell ’22
“It’s important that first-generation students know Lynchburg allows them to find themselves. The university provides a community that supports who you are now and who you want to become. Personal relationships with professors and access to resources ensure every student can find their place here.”
