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First Generation Advisory Council

Meet the members of the Advisory Council

Taylor Black - President

I am a senior accounting student from Ottawa, KS. I joined the First-Gen council with the intention of helping students like me who had a hard time adjusting to college life. I love being in First Gen because I get to meet so many new people

Taylor Black First Gen


Kaylin Rehder - Vice President

I'm a senior Secondary Education student with majors in English and Psychology. Being a First Gen student means forging my own path, even when it seems daunting or confusing. I take great pride and honor in being able to take the torch from my parents across the finish line.

Kaylin Rehder


Karen Santiago - First-Gen Graduate Student

I am an international graduate former student-athlete at ESU. I decided to take on the first-generation graduate position because I understand firsthand what it’s like to be far from home and to face challenges in navigating college life. My teammates were instrumental in guiding me through my college journey, and I firmly believe in the power of a strong support network. Such support is crucial in college, where we encounter various transitions and challenges. Although I am not a first-generation graduate student, I am confident that my experiences and insights can contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for those who are.