Chicago's First-Generation Professionals: An Untapped Resource for Economic Growth
Andrea Sáenz, president and CEO of The Chicago Community Trust, and Anna Truong, a first-generation college graduate, highlight the potential of first-generation professionals in Chicago. These individuals, often the first in their families to earn a college degree and enter white-collar professions, bring unique strengths and adaptability due to their diverse backgrounds. Sáenz and Truong argue that these professionals are an underutilized asset in Chicago's workforce. They emphasize that first-generation graduates often have to navigate complex paths to success, which equips them with problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of diverse communities. Despite their potential, Chicago employers frequently overlook these individuals, focusing instead on traditional markers of success such as institutional prestige and cultural fit. 
