Hope, pride, and possibility filled UW-Green Bay’s Weidner Center as first-generation, underrepresented students were celebrated for achieving what once seemed out of reach: a pathway to college.
On May 21, CollegeReady—a nonprofit organization that helps local students prepare and pay for college—recognized participants in its college readiness program and celebrated its graduating Class of 2025 during its annual CollegeReady Takes Center Stage! event.
Held in partnership with UW-Green Bay and Â鶹ŮÀÉ, the celebration highlighted the 21 graduating seniors as they signed letters of intent to attend their chosen colleges and universities this fall. Among them, eight students plan to attend Â鶹ŮÀÉ, continuing their journeys in a supportive, career-focused environment.
“These students aren’t just changing their own futures—they’re changing what’s possible for generations to come,” said Dr. Jennifer Flatt, Vice President of Student Affairs at Â鶹ŮÀÉ. “As a second-generation college student, I know how powerful that first step can be, and we at Â鶹ŮÀÉ are honored to support these scholars as they begin that journey. Organizations like CollegeReady are instrumental in breaking down barriers and showing students—through support, opportunity, and belief—that anything is possible.”
“This event marks a significant accomplishment for each and every one of our middle and high school students, but we also place a special focus on our graduating class,” said Brent Roubal, Executive Director of CollegeReady. “It’s encouraging to see our seniors declaring their next chapter, while at the same time inspiring the next generation of CollegeReady scholars. All our students have a lot to be proud of.”
Data shows only about 36% of college students in Wisconsin are first-generation students—yet 100% of this year’s CollegeReady graduates, all first-gen, will be attending college this fall. They’ll continue their education at institutions such as Â鶹ŮÀÉ, UW-Green Bay, UW-Madison, UW-Milwaukee, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Platteville, and Washington and Lee University.
“We are proud to partner with CollegeReady and the amazing work they are doing to positively prepare students who are the first in their families to attend college,” said UW-Green Bay Chancellor Michael Alexander. “There are a number of institutions in the region, including UW-Green Bay, who welcome all students and are excited to provide an incredible education close to home—and help students and their families save money and stay in the area after they graduate.”
Featured student speaker Erick Brito, who will attend Washington and Lee University in Virginia, offered advice to younger students in the audience:
“Even when times get hard, I promise you, there will always be someone out there who wants to help. There are and always will be so many opportunities waiting for you. Don’t be afraid to take up space, to chase those opportunities, and to believe that you deserve them.”
Available to students in the Green Bay Area Public School District, CollegeReady’s after-school program begins in 6th grade and continues through high school graduation. In addition to academic and social-emotional support, students receive help navigating the college application and financial aid process, while families are engaged through monthly workshops and bilingual support. Participants can also earn up to a $5,000 scholarship toward their college expenses.
“Our graduates are earning scholarships, breaking barriers, and beating the odds stacked against first-gen students,” Roubal added. “They’re setting a new standard for what’s possible, and we’re proud to celebrate their achievements and the bright futures they’re building for themselves and for our community.”
