COLUMBIA, Mo. — Rebecca Fallon, an academic advisor at the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs, has received the University of Missouri’s inaugural First-Generation Faculty/Staff Champion Award, presented by the First-Generation Student Success Standing Advisory Board. This award celebrates faculty and staff who demonstrate a commitment to first-generation student success through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership in first-generation initiatives on campus.
Rebecca, herself a first-generation graduate, has supported Mizzou’s First-Gen community since its inception. She has led the First-Generation Trailblazers FIG (Freshman Interest Group) since Fall 2021. Rebecca’s colleagues describe her as the “go-to resource” for First-Gen students, helping them navigate college life, access resources, and develop a sense of belonging on campus.
"Getting to work with first-generation students is a true highlight of my job,” said Rebecca Fallon. “As a first-gen student myself, I know the resilience and determination needed to succeed. It’s a privilege to be first, but it also comes with responsibility. I am honored to help students navigate their path with a little nudge from someone who has been there before.”
The First-Generation Faculty/Staff Champion Award will be given annually to a faculty or staff member who demonstrates:
- Commitment to advancing first-generation scholars;
- Leadership in first-generation programs and events;
- Mentorship and advocacy for first-generation students; and
- Dedication to the university’s first-generation community.
For more information on the First-Generation Initiatives at Mizzou, please contact Selena Meints (selenameints@missouri.edu), First-Generation Initiatives Coordinator.