CGSA at UND

The Chemistry Graduate Student Association (CGSA) and the American Chemical Society Graduate Student and Postdoc Organization at UND

by Eugene Oga, CGSA President

Student Organization Impact

Graduate school is a transformative period that goes beyond just academics and research. It’s a crucial time to build a strong support system, develop leadership skills, and plan for a successful career. Getting involved in student organizations significantly enhances this experience, promoting professional growth, expanding vital networks, and greatly improving overall well-being. These groups are essential for a successful graduate journey, addressing the social, emotional, and professional aspects of student life.

The CGSA at UND is dedicated to building community, supporting professional development, and conducting outreach within the chemistry field. Their main goal is to connect students and research groups in the Chemistry department, aiming to create a more unified and supportive environment for everyone. The CGSA is also deeply committed to inclusivity, welcoming all students regardless of their background and ensuring all events are neutral and open.

Annual Update

The 2024-2025 academic year, under the dedicated leadership of President Eugene Oga, Vice President Herbert Che-Mughe, Treasurer Esther Addo, Secretary Prince Kwao, Officer in charge of Research Nafisa Bala, Officer in charge of Outreach Diane Tangmi, Officer in charge of Internal Control Indika Manikpura Dewage, Officer in charge of Teaching Bernard Ussher, and Past President Mason Clobes, has successfully delivered on several significant initiatives, including:

• Many CGSA graduate student members actively presented their research at various conferences. This demonstrates the high caliber of work conducted within the department and increases the visibility of their research both nationally and internationally.
• In a major initiative, the CGSA has taken the lead in establishing an American Chemical Society (ACS) recognized organization specifically for graduate students and postdocs. This effort will provide a formal platform for networking, professional development, and advocacy within the wider chemical science community.
• The CGSA has been instrumental in creating a local Younger Chemist Committee for the Red River Valley area. This committee will serve as an important resource for early-career chemists, offering support, mentorship, and opportunities for engagement.
• The CGSA successfully organized its first off-campus potluck event. This offered a new and relaxed setting for students to connect and build stronger relationships outside of the academic environment.

Local Focus

The American Chemical Society (ACS) actively supports students in “helping navigate your transition to the professional world” by offering “career tools, workshops, and programs tailored to the needs of chemical science grad students and postdocs.

A strong, locally focused CGSA fosters immediate community and peer support, addressing daily graduate life challenges and promoting departmental cohesion. This robust local foundation can then be significantly enhanced by the broader professional development, networking, and funding opportunities an ACS GSO offers. Together, they offer a truly comprehensive and enriching graduate experience.

These accomplishments highlight the CGSA’s dedication to its core mission of creating a more connected and supportive department, while also expanding its reach to impact the broader chemical science community. The CGSA continues to be a driving force in providing valuable resources and opportunities for its members and the chemistry department as a whole.

Thank you for a great year!

President Eugene Oga extends his sincere appreciation to his hardworking team for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in achieving these significant milestones. He also expresses profound gratitude to the faculty and staff of the University of North Dakota’s Chemistry Department for their invaluable support, guidance, and collaboration, which have been instrumental in the CGSA’s success.