The Black Graduate & Professional Student Caucus at The Ohio State University formed in 1971 as a conglomerate organization to support the needs of Black graduate and professional students. The Caucus promotes academic, cultural, service, and social programs for the University community, the Black community, and for Black graduate and professional students in particular. The Caucus also provides a forum in which the Black graduate and professional student body may present, discuss, and act upon issues relative to its role in the academic and non-academic aspects of the University community.

Signature Programs 

First Fridays: The Caucus meets every first Friday of the school year. Each meeting features time for networking and a specific focus. Previous meetings have included: Black history trivia, mental health assistance for graduate students, panels featuring senior graduate students, art shows and much more. Specific details about meeting location and time are distributed via email and on our social media pages. Meetings are open to all Black graduate and professional students. The Caucus hosts a social mixer after each meeting.

Mentoring Program: The Caucus partners with the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals to match undergraduates at The Ohio State University with graduate students/professionals in their field of interest. Mentees in our mentoring also are eligible for a scholarship presented at the Slater Johnson Memorial Banquet. Learn more and get involved by visiting the Mentoring Program tab.

Slater Johnson Memorial Banquet: Each year The Ohio State University’s Black Graduate & Professional Student Caucus (BGPSC) has celebrated the achievements of students across our campus through our Annual Slater-Johnson Memorial Banquet. In honor of two previous members that are no longer with us, we use this event to honor those in our community and legacy through fellowship, entertainment, scholarships, and awards. It is a time for us to reflect on all of the work BGPSC has done throughout the school year and to begin our transition to the following year. If you have any questions, or would like to be involved in the banquet, please contact our Vice President, Devin Swiner (swiner.2@osu.edu).