By Lacey Desserault

For first-generation college students, navigating higher education can feel like stepping into uncharted territory, but connections with those who have walked a similar path can be an invaluable guide.

In honor of National First-Generation College Celebration, Washington State University Tri-Cities joins in shining a light on the barriers first generation students overcome and recognizes first generation faculty and staff who understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with being the first in their family to pursue a degree.

These dedicated individuals serve as mentors and sources of inspiration, proving that success is within reach. Students are empowered to embrace their own educational journeys with confidence, knowing they are part of a resilient and supportive community.

Connecting with first-generation faculty and staff also provides a source of understanding and relatability. Knowing firsthand the unique pressures that come with balancing family expectations, navigating financial aid, and utilizing university resources, these leaders can offer specific advice, emotional support, and a sense of belonging to help students build resilience and confidence.

The following faculty and staff share their own stories of persistence and success, demonstrating that the challenges are surmountable and that each student’s presence on campus is valued.

Teddi Nee, ARNP, DNP-PMHNP-BC, Clinical Assistant Professor in the College of Nursing

Born and raised in eastern Oregon, Nee grew up in an area with minimal resources compared to the urban parts of the region. After connecting with the healthcare field early on because of her mother, she built a network to obtain an associate’s and bachelor’s degree in nursing, and later on pursued a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. During periods of financial uncertainty, Nee knew she had the unwavering support of family and friends behind her in achieving her dream of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Nee is grateful for the support she received and now gives back to the community by providing psychiatric services and teaching in the College of Nursing.

“It really is true that you can achieve anything you wish to achieve if you believe in yourself enough.”

Vanessa Cozza, Scholarly Associate Professor of English

As the only daughter of immigrant parents, school was often challenging for Cozza in having to navigate between two different cultures. It wasn’t until she attended college that she felt truly supported and motivated to succeed.

“I had amazing professors that helped me achieve my goals and made me the person I am today.”

Jesus Bravo, Associate Professor of Management

When Bravo had to stop attending college after only one semester to help support his family, he thought he was destined to follow in his parents’ footsteps and grow up without a college degree. However, thirteen years later, Bravo returned to his local community college as an older student, utilizing all the resources available to him. Eventually earning associate’s, bachelor’s, and doctoral degrees, he credits the safety net that the community college provided, as well as the support from his wife, siblings, and parents for helping him become the only member of his immediate family to have earned a degree.

“My path was not a straight one, but I was able to navigate it with the help and support of many. For that, I am forever grateful.”

Evelyn Martinez-Ostrom, Director, Student Engagement and Leadership

As a senior in high school, Martinez-Ostrom didn’t know if college was in the cards for her until a teacher encouraged her to apply for a scholarship. Receiving the scholarship prompted her to apply to one school: WSU Tri-Cities, which was conveniently located close to her hometown and where her sibling lived. While in college, Martinez-Ostrom changed her major twice, applied for emergency hardship funds, made friends, was elected to student government, helped secure funding for the Student Union Building, and decided on a future career plan involving an advanced degree. The success and support she found at WSU Tri-Cities showed her younger relatives that college was attainable, and that her parents could trust the campus to take care of their daughter.

“Being first-generation is not easy, but it proves how resilient we can be.”

Sandra Haynes, Chancellor

As a young girl, Chancellor Haynes loved spending the night at her grandparents’ house because, as a special treat and a chance to stay up later than her bedtime, her grandmother would sometimes take her to work with her at night cleaning office buildings in downtown Denver. Her grandmother had only an 8th grade education and, along with her grandfather, they worked hard throughout their lives to make ends meet. Haynes describes them as proud, working-class people with a tremendous work ethic and an uncommon depth of caring for others. For Haynes, post-secondary education was not a consideration, so she entered the workforce after high school. She soon found herself questioning her future. During this time of reflection, she vividly recalled her grandmother’s words to her late one night as they cleaned an office, with her grandmother dusting bookshelves and Haynes busy emptying trash cans. 

“Do you know the difference between our family and theirs?” Haynes’ grandmother asked as she pointed at a photograph of a smiling family that was situated on a desk. Before she could answer, her grandmother said, “Education.” 

Armed with that memory and inspired by her words, Haynes quit her day job, took a night job waiting tables, and headed to college. 

“It was truly a life-changing decision. I am eternally grateful to my grandmother for what she taught me with her words, compassion, and hard work. And, for my learning that help is all around us, sometimes in the places we least expect it.” 

“Being first-generation is not easy, but it proves how resilient we can be.”

More information about resources for first-generation students at WSU Tri-Cities, including TRIO Student Support Services.