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Fireside Chat with Provost Manfred van Dulmen: Being First-Gen

A conversation on being First-Gen

Location

The Commons : Fireside Lounge

Date & Time

November 4, 2025, 4:00 pm6:00 pm

Description

Join us for a warm and open conversation celebrating the experiences of first-generation students, faculty, and staff at UMBC. This fireside chat creates a space to share stories, challenges, and successes while exploring how being first-generation students shapes our campus community.

Our invited guest, Provost Manfred van Dulmen, will join the discussion to share his perspectives and engage with participants on how UMBC can continue to foster a culture of belonging and support for first-generation Retrievers.

The online portion will begin at 5:15 pm, with Dr. van Dulmen expected to arrive at 5:30.

Whether you're a first-gen student yourself, a proud supporter, or simply curious to learn more, this is a welcoming opportunity to connect, listen, and contribute to an ongoing campus dialogue.

Colorful flyer titled “First Generation Week | November 3–7, 2025” featuring UMBC’s black and gold branding. The flyer lists daily events celebrating first-generation college students:
    • Monday, November 3 – Kickoff, 9 AM, Commons Main Street: Celebrate First-Gen pride with giveaways and community.
    • Tuesday, November 4 – Good Morning Commons: First Gen Edition, 8:30 AM, Commons Sports Zone. Later that day, Fireside Chat at 4 PM, Fireside Lounge: Students, faculty, and staff share First-Gen experiences.
    • Wednesday, November 5 – Let’s Talk Grad School, 12 PM, SOND 101: Learn about preparing for graduate school as a First-Gen student.
    • Thursday, November 6 – Networking Event, 4 PM, Commons Sports Zone: Connect with First-Gen faculty, staff, and alumni.
    • Friday, November 7 – Celebration, 11 AM, Commons Main Street: Close out the week with music and community.


The programming sponsored by the First Generation Network is open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.