Our Mission

BGSO helps Black graduate and professional students foster meaningful and lasting relationships that aid in academic achievement and success. The Black Graduate Student Organization was founded in 1985 by graduate and professional students at the University of Florida. This organization was created in order to provide a comfortable social, academic, and cultural outlet for Black graduate and professional students on a predominately white campus. Twenty-six years later, BGSO continues to provide many opportunities for graduate and professional students of African, Caribbean, and African-American descent to network with each other and become involved at UF and in the surrounding community.

MembershiP

Interested in Joining Us?

Membership in BGSO is open to enrolled students at the University of Florida, regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, or physical disability. Non-students, spouses, faculty, and staff may be associate members. However, they may not vote or hold office. Only graduate students may vote.

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Programming Pillars

These four pillars (represented here by Adinkra symbols) reflect the types of programs and events we create to support Black graduate and professional students. Each experience is designed to foster scholarship, meaningful connections, service, and professional growth. Together, they shape a supportive environment where members can thrive academically and socially.