First-Generation College Celebration
Posted on October 20, 2023
First-Generation students, faculty, and staff are all invited to the annual "First-Generation College Celebration".
Date: November 8
Time: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Location: Creese Student Center
Hosted by First Forward, The Center for Inclusive Education and Scholarship, and Dragons First, the event will include refreshments, give-aways, and a button-making station!
The Fall Quarter Saturday Summit
Posted on October 11, 2023
Saturday Summit is a quarterly event designed to empower Drexel's first-generation students and
students of color to reach their goals. Whether you're a first-year, a senior, or somewhere in between,
you can expect to meet peers, learn new skills, hear new perspectives, and connect with resources
across campus.
The fall quarter Saturday Summit will be held on Saturday, October 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Register Today
Celebrating Juneteenth
Posted on June 15, 2023
Join us as we recognize and honor the Black experience in America, honoring the past and looking forward to the future with hope.
Juneteenth at Drexel
Celebrating Black History Month
Posted on February 02, 2023
The Drexel community observes Black History Month — recognizing the importance of Black history as a vital part of the American story. This year's Black History Month events will be hosted by various offices across campus, in collaboration with the Center for Black Culture (CBC). Join us in celebrating the history, culture, and traditions of all Black and African American communities.
View All Events
Honoring a Powerful Legacy
Posted on January 12, 2023
Every year in January, we pause to reflect on the powerful teachings of the great civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose activism encourages us all to give back to our communities. Beginning January 16 and continuing through January 20, you're invited to join the Drexel community for a week of activities and reflection opportunities as we learn more about the values and messages that Dr. King taught, including civic engagement, economic justice, racial equity, and nonviolent resistance.
Volunteer and Learn More
The Winter Quarter Saturday Summit
Posted on January 05, 2023
Saturday Summit is a quarterly event designed to empower Drexel's first-generation students and
students of color to reach their goals. Whether you're a first-year, a senior, or somewhere in between,
you can expect to meet peers, learn new skills, hear new perspectives, and get connected to resources
across campus. At the Summits, there will be opportunities to hear from speakers and participate in
workshops on a range of topics including wellness, academics, professional development, leadership,
and DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging).
The winter quarter Saturday Summit will be held on Saturday, January 21, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will include workshops/talks such as:
- Learning new academic and wellness tools
- Building healthy financial habits in college
- Community Engagement
Register Today
"Black Men Are" Support Group
Posted on October 24, 2022
"Black Men Are" is a new support group for Black male identifying individuals to support each other through the journey of navigating a PWI and life.
Date: Bi-Weekly starting Monday, October 24
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Center for Black Culture Lounge, Room 137, Rush Building
Register by sending an email to counsel@drexel.edu
First-Generation College Celebration
Posted on October 21, 2022
First-Generation students, faculty, and staff are all invited to the annual "First-Generation College Celebration".
Date: November 9
Time: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Creese Student Center
Hosted by First Forward, The Center for Inclusive Education and Scholarship, and Dragons First, the event will include refreshments, give-aways, and a button-making station!
Save the Date for the Winter 2022 Saturday Summit
Posted on October 20, 2022
The Winter 2023 Saturday Summit will be held on Saturday, January 21.
The Saturday Summit is a quarterly event designed to empower Drexel's first-generation students and
students of color to reach their goals. Whether you’re a first-year, a senior, or somewhere in between,
you can expect to meet peers, learn new skills, hear new perspectives, and get connected to resources
across campus. At the Summits, there will be opportunities to hear from speakers and participate in
workshops on a range of topics including wellness, academics, professional development, leadership,
and DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging).
More event details will be available later in the fall.
"You Are Your Best Thing" Support Group
Posted on October 17, 2022
"You Are Your Best thing" is a new support group Black fem identifying dragons to process their experience of living with intersecting marginalized identities.
Date: Bi-Weekly starting Monday, October 17
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Center for Black Culture Lounge, Room 137, Rush Building
Register by sending an email to counsel@drexel.edu
Nuestra Cultura Art Exhibit and Reception
Posted on October 06, 2022
The exhibition Nuestra Cultura, located at the James E. Marks Intercultural Center, aims to showcase some of the work by a group of Westphal undergraduate Latinx artists in an effort to bring awareness to the Latine Identity while also encouraging other Latinx artist to be proud of their roots during Hispanic Heritage Month and beyond. The art exhibition is open to the public until October 31, 2022.
On October 11 there will be a "Meet the Artists" reception at the exhibition site.
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
4–6 p.m.
James E. Marks Intercultural Center
3225 Arch Street - Lobby
Philadelphia, PA 19104
RSVP
Indigenous People's Day Event
Posted on October 05, 2022
The Drexel Indigenous Students of the Americas Organization will be hosting its first Indigenous People's Day event to celebrate and showcase Indigenous cultures with food, performances, guests speakers, networking opportunities,
music, fundraising, and a general space holding for Indigenous peoples.
October 10, 2022
12 p.m.
Sky View Lounge, MacCalister Hall
The Inaugural Saturday Summit
Posted on September 27, 2022
The Saturday Summit is a quarterly event designed to empower Drexel's first-generation students and
students of color to reach their goals. Whether you’re a first-year, a senior, or somewhere in between,
you can expect to meet peers, learn new skills, hear new perspectives, and get connected to resources
across campus. At the Summits, there will be opportunities to hear from speakers and participate in
workshops on a range of topics including wellness, academics, professional development, leadership,
and DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging).
The inaugural Saturday Summit will be held on Saturday, October 1, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will include workshops/talks such as:
- Vulnerability is Key with Robia Smith-Herman, Therapist and Embedded BIPOC Specialist
- Getting past NOPE: A discussion on how to put thought and effort into tasks we dread with Preston Roach
- Who You Know and Who Knows You: The Importance of Networking and Mentorship
Register Today
2022 THRIVE Retreat Application Open
Posted on June 16, 2022
The THRIVE: Students of Color Early Move-in Empowerment Retreat is designed to empower first-year and transfer students who are historically underrepresented to thrive, find their voice, and take their seat at the table in the Drexel community. Through this retreat, students get to move in early and build community while attending workshops crafted specifically for them. Space is limited for this empowering opportunity.
The Application for the 2022 Retreat is now open. Eligible students must submit an application by 8 p.m. (EST) on Wednesday, July 13, for consideration.
Apply
Celebrate Juneteenth
Posted on June 16, 2022
Each year, Juneteenth commemorates the effective end of slavery in the United States. Although President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, it wasn't until June 19, 1865 that those enslaved were truly freed by executive decree. Join us in celebrating this historic milestone for Black history on June 22 at the Juneteenth Block Party, hosted in collaboration with various offices across campus, and check out the Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade and Festival, the largest annual celebration of Juneteenth in the nation!
RSVP
First Forward Graduation Cord Pick-up
Posted on May 20, 2022
First Forward brings together all members of the Drexel community to ensure that first-generation college students are supported and recognized for their unique insights and experiences. First Forward will be offering teal graduation cords to help recognize the accomplishments of our first-generation graduates during this year's Commencement ceremonies. If you didn't get a chance to pick up your cord at the Graduation Fair, you can stop by CIES and pick it up. Please keep in mind that there are a limited number of cords available.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact First Forward at firstgeneration@drexel.edu.
The Global Scholars Annual Commencement Event
Posted on May 12, 2022
At Drexel, we are so excited to honor the achievements and upcoming graduation of all our Drexel Global Scholars at our annual Commencement event. This special celebration will be held on Tuesday, June 7, at 12 p.m. Students and program partners will receive an invitation to this momentous occasion via email.
Learn More About the Drexel Global Scholars Program
June 3: Liberty Scholars Graduation Celebration
Posted on May 11, 2022
We are excited to celebrate this year's class of graduates from the Liberty Scholars program. We are so proud of the many accomplishments of our inspiring Liberty Scholars. This momentous occasion will be held on Friday, June 3, at 6 p.m. Students, mentors, and program partners will receive invitations to this special celebration via email.
Learn More About the Liberty Scholars Program
Upcoming Future Ventures Inaugural Event
Posted on April 25, 2022
The very first Future Ventures: Entrepreneurship Seminar for Young Men will be held at Drexel on Friday, May 20, 2022.
Desiring to inspire an entrepreneurial spirit and actively live the mission of the Charles D. Close School, this one-day program is designed to help underrepresented and underserved young men of color in the city of Philadelphia to be entrepreneurial thinkers and doers, preparing them to meet the world market on solid footing and to create their own opportunities. In this interactive seminar, concepts of social entrepreneurship, tech entrepreneurship, and art and design entrepreneurship will be on display with current Drexel student entrepreneurs presenting their companies. If you have questions about this event, please email Bernetta McCall-Millonde at mccallbc@drexel.edu.
2022 Dragons Prep Applications Open
Posted on April 23, 2022
Dragons Prep, a five-week intensive summer program, enables incoming first-year Drexel students to build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills before fully transitioning to college. By cultivating the talents and proficiencies of Dragons Prep participants, students are empowered to navigate the University environment, utilize systems and resources that support their success, and maximize their involvement in Drexel's diverse and vibrant campus. Throughout the first academic year, Dragons Prep participants will receive customized services that can include mentoring and coaching, as well as networking and social opportunities. Most importantly, the connections made as a Dragons Prep student will last through their college years and beyond.
In 2022, Dragons Prep will run from Sunday, July 24 through Saturday, August 27. Dragons Prep participants engage in program activities Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET during the summer program. Space is limited and there is a competitive application process. Completed applications are due May 15 and reviewed on a rolling basis.
Learn More About Applying to Dragons Prep
This Year's STEM Conference for Young Women
Posted on April 22, 2022
The STEM Conference for Young Women is a collaboration between Drexel and the Camden, New Jersey-based non-profit organization, Women of the Dream. Historically underrepresented and underserved young women of color from Philadelphia and Camden are invited each year to partake in the conference, which includes hands-on STEM activities under the guidance of professionals, faculty, and current students in STEM fields; a panel discussion featuring professional women of color in STEM careers; and a college access workshop discussing the high school preparation that it takes to pursue a STEM major in college.
This year's STEM Conference will be held on Friday, May 6, 2022. If you have questions about this event, please email Bernetta McCall-Millonde at mccallbc@drexel.edu.
College Access Academy Application Is Open
Posted on April 21, 2022
The College Access Academy is a free one-week residential program designed to assist rising high school juniors and seniors, in particular minority and first-generation students, through the college selection and admissions processes. Interactive workshops will be offered on topics including selecting a right-fit college, choosing a major, SAT preparation, essay writing, interviewing skills, financing a college education, and more. Each participant is paired with a College Access Academy faculty member who will guide them throughout the week and provide individualized counseling with the goal of every student leaving with a list of right-fit schools to visit and apply to in their senior year.
This year, the College Access Academy will run from July 17 to July 22, 2022. Applications are due Monday, May 30.
Apply to the College Access Academy
Captivate 6.7.8.
Posted on March 14, 2022
CAPTIVATE 6.7.8 is designed to capture the imagination of middle school students and inspire them to plan for college and consider future STEM careers. CAPTIVATE launched at Drexel in May of 2016 with six middle schools from Philadelphia’s Promise Zone in attendance, and has grown since in participation and reach. The event is a half-day program with hands-on STEM activities under the guidance of faculty, staff, and current students in STEM fields and includes a campus tour.
This year, CAPTIVATE 6.7.8 will be held on Friday, May 13, 2022 from 9–12:30 p.m. on Drexel's campus.
Schools that are interested in participating should contact Bernetta McCall-Millonde at mccallbc@drexel.edu. Please note that space is limited.
Celebrating Black History Month
Posted on February 02, 2022
Each February, the Drexel community, along with the rest of the U.S., observes Black History Month — recognizing the importance of Black history as a vital part of the American story. Following the tradition set in place by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1925, Black History Month not only pays tribute to the African Americans who faced adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society but also raises awareness of all the contributions that African Americans have made to our civilization. All community members are encouraged to learn more about Black History Month on their own as the University celebrates the achievements and triumphs of our Black community members here at Drexel and in the city of Philadelphia all month long.
This year's series of events honoring Black History Month will be hosted by various offices across campus, in collaboration with the Center for Black Culture (CBC). From month-long student activities to information sessions and hands-on workshops, there are plenty of ways to get involved in Black History Month at Drexel.
Some key events you should consider participating in are:
- Black History Month Scavenger Hunt – Occurring from February 1 through 27
- ECO Foundation Donation Drive – Accepting donations from February 1 through 28
- Afro-House Virtual Dance Session – Thursday, February 10 from 1–2 p.m.
- Virtual Black and Global Panel Discussion – Thursday, February 10 from 5:30–6:30 p.m.
- BFPSA Black History Month Luncheon – Wednesday, February 23 from 12–1:30 p.m.
For more information on these events and many more, visit the Center for Black Culture's Events page. If you have any questions, please contact cbc@drexel.edu. Additionally, we encourage all community members to learn more about Black history through such resources as the African American Museum in Philadelphia and National Museum of African American History and Culture.
First in the Family Support Group
Posted on February 01, 2022
Offered by the Office of Counseling and Health Services, the First in Family Support Group aims to provide support for first-generation college students. Students will have opportunities to relate, encourage, and support through shared experiences with topics that may include, but not limited to, lack of knowledge about college experience/resources, imposter syndrome, financial and family stress, and challenging subject matters.
Learn More
The Global Scholars Community
Posted on February 01, 2022
Since its founding in 2012, the Drexel Global Scholar program has recognized select incoming international undergraduate students based on their exceptional academic achievement and commitment to global leadership and international community building.
Read the DrexelNow article "Global Again: How the Drexel Global Scholars Community Never Faltered in the Pandemic" to see how the students in this program came together when the University's campus closed in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that regardless where in the world they were physically located, their community remained strong.
Former High School Scholar Named 2022 Rhodes Scholar
Posted on January 26, 2022
The High School Scholars Program is a highly selective program that allows high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors to register for college courses — on a space-available basis — at Drexel University's University City Campus while completing high school. Applicants must demonstrate the responsibility and maturity expected of university students and have the approval of their high school guidance counselor to participate. It is important to note that this is NOT a dual-enrollment program; the High School Scholars Program does not offer high school credit through college courses.
The University recently learned that Michael Cheng, who participated in the program from 2014 to 2017, has been named among the 100 Scholars in the 2022 class of the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship.
You can read more about Michael's accomplishments at the Pennoni Honors College News and Announcements page.
FirstGen: Foundation in Finances Workshops
Posted on October 15, 2021
First-Generation students are invited to attend the Foundation in Finances workshops hosted by First Forward. During these hour-long sessions we plan to discuss general financing information and budgeting tips, loan repayment, and how to read the Drexel eBill. This information will be presented by members of Drexel Central, the one-stop shop for billing and financial aid information at Drexel University.
Date and Time (Undergraduate Students): Wednesday, November 10, 7–8 p.m. ET
Date and Time (Graduate Students): Wednesday, November 10, 8
Register Now
Fall 2022 Liberty Scholar Applications Open
Posted on October 12, 2021
Liberty Scholar applications are now available for first-year fall 2022 applicants.
Through the Liberty Scholars program, Drexel provides 65 recent high school graduates from across the nation with a renewable scholarship award that covers 100 percent of tuition and fees. Additionally, the program fosters student success through a dedicated faculty or staff mentor, a Living Learning Community in which all scholars live during their first two years, extracurricular and developmental programming, and active engagement with campus life. Looking ahead, we are striving to strengthen our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social justice by cultivating the thought leaders and social justice advocates of tomorrow through the program's expanded eligibility criteria.
Applicants must first apply for admission to fall 2022 and then will be able to apply for the Liberty Scholars program via their Discover Drexel account.
Learn More About Applying to Drexel
Learn More About Liberty Scholars