Assembly Resolution No. 1582

BY: M. of A. Rules (Cashman)

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
November 8, 2026, as First-Generation College
Graduate Day in the State of New York

WHEREAS, A "first-generation college student" means an individual
whose parents did not complete a baccalaureate degree, or in the case of
any individual who regularly resided with and received support from only
one parent, an individual whose parent did not complete a baccalaureate
degree; and

WHEREAS, November 8th honors the anniversary of the signing of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson on November
8, 1965; and

WHEREAS, First-generation college graduates represent a vital
component of New York State's workforce and civic life, contributing to
economic growth, innovation, public service, education, healthcare, and
community leadership; and

WHEREAS, New York State is home to a diverse population of
first-generation college graduates educated through the State University
of New York, the City University of New York, independent colleges and
universities, and other accredited institutions of higher education; and

WHEREAS, The success of first-generation college graduates
strengthens families and communities, expands intergenerational
opportunity, and serves as a powerful example to future students that
higher education is attainable, regardless of background; and

WHEREAS, First-generation college graduates often play a critical
role in advancing educational equity by returning to their communities
as mentors, educators, professionals, and advocates for access to higher
education; and

WHEREAS, Recognizing First-Generation College Graduate Day provides
an opportunity to honor perseverance, resilience, and academic
achievement while reaffirming New York State's commitment to expanding
access, affordability, and student success in higher education; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 8, 2026, as
First-Generation College Graduate Day in the State of New York; and be
it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York, and to such other entities as deemed appropriate.