First Gen Grant Program
The FGPM First Generation Grant Program is designed to support Milwaukee's first generation students and emerging professionals by minimizing the financial pressures of academic or emerging professional life. Our goal is to show our first gen community that they are seen and to reward their hard work and perseverance as they navigate unfamiliar life experiences.
FGPM @ PULSE Wellness
Announcing the First Gen Zen Den @ PULSE Wellness
Announcing the First Gen Zen Den at PULSE Wellness! PULSE is the city’s largest outdoor fitness and wellness event, where attendees of all levels can take part in FREE workouts and experiences. From fitness enthusiasts to those just beginning their wellness journey, attendees can explore more than 40 group classes, live cooking demonstrations, and opportunities to engage with over 50 local and national health, wellness, and fitness organizations.
How will FGPM be involved and how does health and wellness fit into our mission? Great questions.
At Pulse Wellness this year, FGPM will be sponsoring the First Gen Zen Den
Over the course of the event, there will be four programs in the space, inviting event attendees to relax, enjoy calming meditation and sound bath, and de-stress your nervous system.
FGPM believes mental wellness is key for the first generation experience. This activation highlights our goal to advance first generation students and emerging professionals by making an investment in your mental wellbeing and stress management.
Need a place to chat, network, or generally regroup at the event? Be sure to check out the First Gen Deck on top of the Miller pavilion. There will be a giveaway at 3pm, featuring fun offerings from other PULSE sponsors and FGPM swag. To receive your handstamp for the First Gen Deck, simply visit the FGPM table at the First Gen Zen Den.
PULSE Wellness is taking place on August 29th from 9am to 2pm, at Henry Maier Festival Park.
Registration is free at www.milwaukeeworldfestival.com/pulse.
First Gen Spring Gathering
First Generation Spring Gathering - April 11
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First Generation Spring Gathering - April 11 〰️
Announcing a very unique First Gen Spring Gathering! Registration now open!
On April 11, FGPM, in collaboration with three other young professional groups, will host the First Gen Spring Gathering. This Gathering will invite attendees to participate in Station 1846’s Iconic City Tours, network with peers, and enjoy an early spring atmosphere in one of Milwaukee's liveliest venues. Refreshments, including one drink ticket, will be provided.
April 11, 2026 from 12 - 4pm
Station 1846 in Walker’s Point
iconic city bus tour tickets available at reduced price for event attendees
We are also excited to highlight three first generation partner organizations! Please see below for more information about:
Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA)
National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
Event registration is now open! Click here to secure your spot.
Interested in Sponsorship?
We are seeking partners to produce the event and would love to offer you an advance opportunity to support. There are four main sponsorship elements available, at accessible ranges of investment. Visibility for this event is uniquely positioned: the Spring Gathering will be promoted across all four organizations. We hope to have confirmed sponsors no later than April 1.
Click here for the Sponsorship Deck
Click here for a One Page Summary
FAQ
Where is Station 1846?
215 W Bruce St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Is parking available?
Yes, there is ample parking on the streets surrounding 1846
What is included in my ticket?
General attendance includes one drink ticket
Where can I buy Tour tickets?
FGPM Winter Happy Hour
🎄 Winter Happy Hour with First Generation Professionals of Milwaukee, Inc. (Graciously Sponsored By: CK Consulting)
Celebrate the season at our Winter Happy Hour on Tuesday, December 9th, 2025, from 5:30 – 7:30 PM! Enjoy an evening of holiday cheer, light networking, and great conversation with fellow young professionals. Your first drink is on us, so come raise a glass, make new connections, and toast to a successful year ahead.
Location: Station 1846 (215 W Bruce St, Milwaukee, WI 53204)
FGPM Fall Gathering
Join us for a evening of networking, noshing, and celebrating our summer accomplishments. First One (drink or snack) On Us!
NEW for this event: Earn First Gen Points while you network!
Let's have some fun: During the FGPM Fall Gathering, earn First Gen Points by completing specific tasks with your fellow attendees. Want extra drink tickets? Make a new connection on LinkedIn. Got your eye on the FGPM fleece blanket? Set a coffee with a new mentor/mentee.
And more! Make sure you ask an FGPM Board Member for the complete list! Prizes will be revealed at the Gathering.
Leveraging Your Corporate Reputation to Expand Your Professional Opportunities: A Q&A with Jamar Jones of Foureva Media
Join us for an evening of personal branding and networking, including a live Q&A with Jamar Jones of Foureva Media.
FGPM Speed Networking
Join us for an afternoon of quick conversations, and long lasting connections, between first generation students and professionals!
Designing Diversity and Advancing Equity: An Interview with Terri Howard, HGA
Terri Howard is powerhouse diversity, equity, and inclusion leader in Milwaukee. As a senior DEI strategic and operational executive, Terri has extensive experience designing, developing, and leading ssignificant equity strategies and programs, with the goal of maximizing functional, economic and human potential.
Currently at HGA, Terri serves as a thought leader to drive equity initiatives, develop hands-on programming, organize firmwide resources, and build external partnerships that position HGA as an industry model in workplace equity, recruitment and retention, and client relations.
From Bench Service to Board Service: A Conversation with Judge Derek Mosley
From Bench Service to Board Service: A Conversation with Judge Derek Mosley
From his twenty years on the City of Milwaukee Municipal Court bench to his new opportunity at Marquette University Law School’s Lubar Center for Public Policy Research & Civic Education, Derek Mosley is an advocate for Milwaukee. His dedication to his communities have done the work to change perspectives and highlight biases, while showing us that everyone has a story to tell and value to bring to our city. His compassion and fairness on the bench, plus his welcoming and positive demeanor, inspire us to be better versions of ourselves. FGPM President Molly Madonia sat with Judge Mosley to learn more about his passions for community service, his best advice for young professionals, and how we can recognize, address, and eliminate biases from our daily lives.
Professional Development Summer
It’s Professional Dvelopment Summer at FGPM! From leading as a first generation professional, to overcoming imposter syndrome, to cultivating motivation and recognition, FGPM is excited to share our favorite leadership development articles.
Financial Literacy - An Investment in Yourself
As a student and young adult, most of us were never taught to effectively a) save, b) spend, and c) invest. During this Panel, we will hear from accounting professor and financial professional Brett Killian and tax attorney Steven MacDonald on how young professionals can save effectively, avoid common financial pitfalls, and begin investing with intention.
Management May
It’s Management May at FGPM! From leading as a first generation professional, to overcoming imposter syndrome, to cultivating motivation and recognition, FGPM is excited to share our favorite leadership development articles.
Mentorship Program Kick-Off Day Two: In-Person Meet Up!
Welcome to Kick-Off Day Two: In-Person Meet Up!
On April 15, mentors and mentees will gather in-person to meet their Mentorship Pairings and to network with other first generation professionals. While not mandatory, we would love to bring our inaugural Program participants together to officially launch this initiative. Enjoy!
Mentorship Program Kick-Off Day One: Virtual Orientation
Welcome to Kick-Off Day One: Virtual Orientation
On April 13, mentors and mentees will gather virtually to review the Mentorship Training, define Program Expectations, and discuss mentorship resources available on the FGPM website. While not mandatory, Orientation is strongly encouraged for first time mentors and mentees.
From Military Service to Board Service: An Interview with Milwaukee Veterans and First Generation Professionals Manny Lara and Steven MacDonald
FGPM is proud to host Milwaukee veterans Manny Lara (Workshift, Wisconsin Veteran’s Chamber of Commerce) and Steven MacDonald (U.S. Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs), as they discuss their transition from military service to the professional workforce.
Manny and Steve share more about valuable skillsets, what makes an impactful leader, and how they serve Milwaukee's veterans today.
Interview Month
March is Interview Month at FGPM! This month, FGPM members can contact membership@fgpm.org to schedule a brief interview prep session, including a mock interview with feedback. See event for more details!
How to Show up as Your Authentic Self in the Workplace and in Your Career as a Young Professional
FGPM is proud to partner with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) - Wisconsin Chapter Emerging Professionals Committee to virtually present “How to Show up as Your Authentic Self in the Workplace and in Your Career as a Young Professional,” featuring FGPM Vice President Margaret Nedow.
See Event details for information
Resume Month
A thoughtful resume is the perfect chance to make a great first impression. Over the month of February, FGPM members can send their resumes for review and refresh. We will take a look and provide high-level feedback!
National Mentorship Month
January is National Mentorship Month! Follow FGPM on Instagram and LinkedIn for mentorship insights, best practices, and ways to make an impact this January.