First Generation Project

Thank you for visiting our First Generation site. On this website, we have compiled true stories of some of the faculty and staff of Seattle Central and the Seattle Vocational Institute who were the first in their families to graduate from college. I hope these stories on this site will inspire you.

Read stories here

About forty percent of the students who attend Seattle Central are first-generation students. First-generation students are trailblazers. Research shows that an older sibling who graduates from college often paves the way for younger siblings behind them.

My own story illustrates how hard it can be. I dropped out of high school, obtained a GED and then struggled to adjust to college. I went on to become the first college graduate in my family and ultimately obtained a Ph.D.

If you or someone you know wants to attend college but doesn't know how to begin, a community college is a great first step. At a community college, students will find smaller classes with faculty and staff. Click here to get started at Seattle Central today. If you are a Seattle Central employee or graduate and would like to submit your story, click here.

Read Our Stories

Al Griswold

Executive Dean of Workforce Education
Interim Executive Dean for Seattle Vocational Institute

Sharon Hager

Graphic Designer,
Public Information Office

Dr. Paul T. Killpatrick

President,
Seattle Central Community College

Marilyn McCamey

Division Assistant,
Humanities and Social Sciences

Gina Nakamura

Outreach Coordinator,
Public Information Office

Tanya Powers

Program Coordinator,
Women's Programs & Workforce Services
Staff Advisor, First Peoples Student Alliance

Michael Taylor

Program Coordinator
Instructor, Application Support Program

Karleen Wolfe

Instructor,
Child & Family Studies