LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WWLP) - An event in Longmeadow Friday night recognized students from diverse backgrounds who were the first in their families to attend college. In honor of national first-generation college day, Bay Path University for the first time ever recognized and celebrated the determination and resilience of their students pursuing higher education. Through their efforts and achievements, they are breaking barriers and inspiring others to do the same. "Sea of hope. I think giving hope to others and knowing that they could be whoever they want to be strong as they work hard for, especially where I come from, I think that a lot of people need to believe in that," said Bay Path University student, Pamela Irizaymendez. Currently over 690 first generation students attend Bay Path university, and the college hopes to keep growing this number. Local News Headlines East Longmeadow honors local veterans with appreciation dinner First-generation college celebration at Bay Path University in Longmeadow Memorial Bridge lamp post removal update Regional leaders recognized during ‘Super 60 Awards’ in Springfield WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.