First Generation Fund

Contributions to the First Generation Fund microchallenge from 100 donors will unlock a gift of $10,000 from Donald Bruns ’68.

Every dollar raised will go toward establishing an endowment for the MIT First Generation Fund. The fund is designed to directly impact the lives of first-generation and/or low-income students at MIT by increasing recognition, celebrating achievements, expanding high-impact programming, and providing targeted grants that unlock opportunities otherwise out of reach. These supports include expanded access to the FLI Opportunities Fund, increasing participation in the FLIPOP preorientation program, and the awarding of FLI commencement stoles.

FLI Day of Visibility (November 7, 2025)

About the First Generation and/or Low-Income Program

Approximately 30% of the MIT undergraduate student body identifies as the first in their family to attend college (first generation) and/or low income. The First Generation and/or Low-Income (FLI) Program engages students at every stage of their journey at MIT—before they step on campus, throughout their academic careers, and as they walk across the stage to accept their diplomas. The FLI Program provides holistic advising and programming grounded in four pillars of student success: Academics, Community, Professional Development, and Advocacy.

FLI Senior Celebration 2025