Get to know a club is a column where students can read about the different clubs on campus and what they do.
1GenTU is a student-run organization at the University of Tulsa, dedicated to fostering a sense of community and celebration among first-generation college students. The group plays an important role in connecting students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education, creating an inclusive environment where they can share resources, experiences and support. While 1GenTU is supplemented by the university’s Academic Success Coordinator for first-generation students, Susan Hartzler, it remains a distinct and independent organization of its own.
The club was originally founded by Mav Henningsen, a first-generation TU alum currently serving as the TU Global Programs Coordinator. During their undergraduate years, Henningsen saw the need for an organization that could connect first-generation students on campus, providing them with a community where they could exchange ideas, share experiences, and access vital resources.
Since its creation, 1GenTU has continued to grow and evolve, always emphasizing its focus on the unique needs of first-generation students. Recently, 1GenTU has been revitalized by a new generation of students, and the current executive team is looking forward to hosting a meet-and-greet event in just a few weeks. This event will serve as an opportunity for first-generation students to meet the current officers of 1GenTU and learn more about the organization’s initiatives. It will also offer a space for students to gather before finals and engage in informal conversations about study tips, stress management, and academic success. The event, planned for the end of April, will be open to all students at TU, providing an inclusive environment for everyone who wishes to learn more about the organization and its goals.
In the short term, the organization emphasized focusing on rebuilding and strengthening its leadership base. A key aspect of this effort involves training new members for executive positions within the organization. The leadership team aims to establish a strong, stable officer base to ensure the smooth transition of leadership from year to year. This strategic planning, they hope, will help maintain the organization’s stability, even during periods of drastic officer transition. The next round of elections for executive positions will take place in the fall, offering more students the chance to get involved in the organization and to shape its future growth.
Looking further ahead, however, 1GenTU’s long-term vision is to host large, frequent celebrations and community gatherings throughout the academic year for first generation students. These events will continue to celebrate the success and contributions of first-generation students at TU while providing a space for them to connect with one another and share their experiences. However, achieving this vision will likely require additional sponsorships to cover the costs of organizing these events, particularly to make up for any deficits in funding from the current DBC allotment.
To support this vision, 1GenTU is encouraging students to get involved, especially by running for positions in the upcoming elections. Interested students are invited to reach out to Elizabeth Olson (eco5302@utulsa.edu), the organization’s current Vice President, for any questions and more information about how they can get involved. As the organization’s leadership noted, to expand its reach and impact, it will be vital for students to stay engaged and work together to create a strong, sustainable community for first-generation students at TU.
