Who We Are / Ben Wagner

Ben Wagner (Writer)

Ben is in his final semester studying journalism at the Hubbard School. Originally from Milwaukee, he’s written stories for publications such as the Minnesota Daily and the Park Bugle since arriving in Minneapolis in 2021. In his free time, he likes playing music, watching TV and movies, and playing basketball at the Rec. It’s also not uncommon to see him at the bowling alley at the Coffman Memorial Union on weekends.

Ben’s Stories

First-Gen Connect empowers and assists students through graduate school

The program helps first-generation students connect with peers and develop skills for graduate school.

By Ben Wagner

Dr. Amelious Whyte in his office in Johnston Hall in Minneapolis, Minn. on Monday, March 25, 2024. Whyte was named Interim Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the College of Liberal Arts in January 2024.

First-Gen DEI administrator’s impact felt throughout campus community

Whyte’s intersecting identities have led to a life and career committed to education, inclusivity and student achievement.

By Ben Wagner

University of Minnesota advisers need more first-gen focus, students say

The University of Minnesota’s first-generation student population feels mostly supported by their advisers, but those students want their advisers to help navigate their university experience.

By Fiona Curran, Gabriel Castilho, Hadeal Rizeq, Ariana Valentin and Ben Wagner