April 11, 2026

California Central Coast

First-Gen Thrive Summit

at Allan Hancock College

Santa Maria, California

A one-day summit of learning and connecting

This inaugural summit was open to 100 first-gen college students from California's Central Coast.

Thank you for making our inaugural summit a success!

On April 11, 2026, first-generation college students from across the region gathered for the inaugural California Central Coast First-Gen Thrive Summit. Hosted at Allan Hancock College, the event brought together presenters, panelists, committee members, and students for a full day of engaging presentations, dynamic panels, meaningful connections, a scholarship award ceremony, and entertainment.

California State Senate President pro Tempore and Central Coast native, Monique Limón, delivered an inspiring keynote, encouraging fellow first-generation students to persevere through challenges and remain firm in pursuing their goals.

Six attendees were selected as scholarship recipients, recognized for their resilience, achievements, and commitment to giving back to their communities.

Thank you to our sponsors, presenters, and panelists for helping make this inaugural summit a resounding success.

Participant Testimonials

"Thank you for creating a space that uplifts not only first-generation students, but also undocumented students. Opportunities like this are incredibly meaningful, as they inspire students to continue pursuing their academic dreams and remind them not to give up on their educational journey."

"It was great because I was able to network and learn a lot about how to THRIVE in college."

"It was a great motivational and inspirational event."

"I appreciate the network opportunities, I feel more confident as being a first gen student."

"I really enjoyed being able to experience the atmosphere of a first-gen group because in some way it felt like we were mirrors of each other by having that in common."

"It was a very well organized and amazingly managed event. Breakfast and lunch options were great, navigating the event was easy, and there were a lot of networking opportunities. I met some great people and made connections. The committee members were very kind and helpful."

"I learned that there are a lot of people that came to great professions from similar backgrounds and upbringings."

Because of the summit, I feel:

Better about my chances in transferring and have more knowledge of the benefits out there for me

Motivated

More seen

better about my next steps

I feel that my student that we brought learned more and feel confident to explore more

More motivation to keep going with my education

Empowered

Confident

More at peace and safe

Informed

More empowered to go out and continue to do my work and to continue to advocate for first generation students

I feel more confident in my ability to get through college as a first gen student!

more prepared for university

Because of the summit, I feel supported

Empowered to be a first generation student and I am confident I will succeed in my life goals.

Ready to keep pushing over barriers.

Because of the summit, I feel inspired and motivated. It reminded me of the importance of creating spaces where students Feel seen, supported, and encouraged to keep pursuing their goals

Inspired, motivated, and secure

Because of the summit, I feel rejuvenated and deeply moved, as the experience served as a powerful reminder of how far I’ve Come while igniting a fresh sense of purpose for my future endeavors

Like I understand first gen needs to support first time students

More knowledgeable

Our Vision:

To create an inspiring, supportive space where California Central Coast first-generation college students receive the knowledge, tools, local networks, and confidence to explore and achieve their educational and professional goals.

Our Mission:

Our group of first-generation leaders is committed to planning a summit and future events that celebrate and uplifts the California Central Coast first-gen college experience. The inaugural summit focused on fostering self-advocacy, confidence, and ownership of students’ educational journeys through workshops, resources, and panels led by first-generation voices and their allies.

Our goal is to build an authentic, supportive California Central Coast community across both 2-year and 4-year institutions that equips students with actionable tools for academic success, leadership growth, and personal empowerment.

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