Business management senior recognized as First-Gen Student of the Month
海角社区 has named Shirlesia Sanders its First-Generation Student of the Month for August 2025, recognizing the senior business management major for her dedication, resilience, and leadership on campus.
Originally from Houston, Texas, Sanders has been working since the age of 16 while pursuing her education, a journey she says has been defined by persistence and faith.
“Being nominated as a first-gen student means everything to me,” Sanders said. “I’ve been working since I was 16, pushing through every challenge with faith and determination, and this moment is a reminder that all the late nights, sacrifices, and silent prayers were not in vain. I’m proud to be the first in my family to walk this path and to show that anything is possible when you don’t give up.”
The First-Gen Student of the Month recognition is part of Lamar’s First-Gen Connections program, which supports and celebrates students who are the first in their families to attend college. The program provides mentorship, community-building opportunities, and academic resources designed to help first-gen students succeed and thrive at LU.
To learn more about First-Gen Connections or to nominate a student for First-Gen Student of the Month, visit lamar.edu/firstgen.