Cardinal First Academy

A signature opportunity for first-generation students.
The Cardinal First Alumni Academy is a powerful evening of networking, mentorship, and professional development—connecting current first-gen students with 75–85 North Central alumni who have successfully navigated life after college. Space is limited, and students are encouraged to take full advantage of this unique, once-every-two-years experience.

On Friday, March 20, from 5:00–8:30pm, North Central College will host the Cardinal First Alumni Academy, a signature biennial event designed especially for our first-generation college students. The Alumni Academy brings together 75–85 first-gen North Central alumni—serving as presenters, panelists, and table hosts—with approximately 200 current first-gen students for an evening focused on professional development, networking, and mentorship. Because of the interactive nature of the program, space is limited, and students are expected to commit to attending the full event to gain the greatest benefit from the experience.

This year’s alumni participants represent an impressive range of pathways and professions. Among those attending are Cardinal First alumni currently enrolled in law school, medical school, and occupational and physical therapy programs, as well as graduates working in business, education, engineering, graphic design, government, law enforcement, human resources, marketing, global logistics, coaching, sales, business analytics, actuarial science, news reporting, and library sciences, among many others. Throughout the evening, students will engage in interactive sessions, meaningful conversations, and a delicious catered dinner, which also includes a few practical tips related to professional dining etiquette. Business casual attire is recommended to help students practice professional norms in a supportive environment.

While the actual value of the Alumni Academy is approximately $100 per student—including the catered dinner, branded Cardinal First swag items, and a book for each attendee—the cost to students is fully covered thanks to generous first-gen alumni donations and a lead gift from Travelers Insurance. Registration is required and will open on February 20, beginning with seniors. All first-generation students will receive details via Cardinal First email communications, and families are encouraged to remind their students to register early and take advantage of this truly unique opportunity. When else will a student have the chance to connect in one evening with so many first-gen North Central graduates who are eager to mentor, guide, and help them move #FirstGenForward?
 

Parents and Families are encouraged to follow us on social media to learn more about our programming and first-gen alumni;
Instagram @firstgencardinals    Facebook @NorthCentralCollege.CardinalFirst

Upcoming Cardinal First Cohort Programs:

Cardinal First Fridays (for first-year students): February 6, March 6 and April 10
Cardinal First Sophomore Supper: February 18, March 24 and April 20
Cardinal First Penultimate (for juniors): February 11, March 19 (Academic Groups) and April 1
Cardinal First Homestretch (for seniors): February 25March 19 (Academic Groups), April 1

First-gen Academic Groups Spring Semester Meetings: Thursday, March 19 | 11:45am-12:45pm