Physics Graduate Student Association
Welcome to the Physics Graduate Student Association (PGSA)
At PGSA, our mission is to cultivate an enriching and welcoming atmosphere that nurtures academic excellence, professional growth, and social connections within our department. By championing the needs and aspirations of our fellow graduate students, our goal is to elevate the overall graduate experience and contribute to the advancement of our physics department. We are dedicated to fostering a sense of unity, facilitating effective communication between students and faculty, and advocating for the concerns of physics graduate students.
Our Focus Areas:
- Academic Support and Collaboration
Central to PGSA's mission is providing unwavering academic support and valuable resources for our peers in the graduate program. We're dedicated to fostering collaborative learning opportunities, allowing students in different research phases to engage in intellectual exchanges that fuel their growth.
- Professional Development
PGSA is committed to equipping graduate students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen career paths. Recognizing the significance of preparing physics graduates for successful futures, we are dedicated to offering a comprehensive array of professional development resources.
- Advocacy
As a voice for graduate students, PGSA provides a platform for expressing concerns, ideas, and suggestions to the department administration. Our commitment extends to advocating for enhancements in student well-being through transparent communication with faculty and administration. We strive to ensure that the needs and interests of physics graduate students are considered in decision-making processes that affect our academic and research environments..
- Building Community and Fostering Social Engagement
PGSA places great emphasis on creating a lively and inclusive community within the physics department. Through a variety of social events both on and off campus, we strive to create opportunities for graduate students to connect, establish lasting relationships, and develop a strong support network.
- Outreach
We understand the importance of connecting with the wider community and enhancing appreciation for physics. Our outreach initiatives aim to ignite interest in physics, promote scientific literacy, and foster a positive perception of the field among the general public.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Dedicated to upholding equity and inclusivity, PGSA actively promotes diversity within the physics department. We're committed to fostering an environment where every individual, regardless of their background or identity, feels valued, respected, and uplifted. Our efforts include implementing inclusive policies, ensuring adequate representation on the PGSC, and collaborating closely with student-led groups focused on DEI, all aimed at fostering a culture that celebrates diversity and empowers every student to achieve their fullest potential.
Join us in shaping a vibrant and dynamic physics graduate community that not only excels academically but also thrives socially and professionally. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of physics education and research.
Organization specifics can be found in the PGSA constitution found here: PGSA Constitution
Our Current Officers:
President: Nathan Davis (ndd0014@auburn.edu)
Vice President: Gabriel Woodbury Saudeau (gsw0024@auburn.edu)
Secretary/Treasurer: Brian Opatosky (bbo0007@auburn.edu)
Second Year Representative: Mason Sake (mss0065@auburn.edu)
Graduate Student Council Senators:
Scott Chumley (swc0017@auburn.edu)
Jody Davis (jld0056@auburn.edu)
Other Attending Members:
Brooks Howe - United Campus Workers of Alabama (zbh0005@auburn.edu)
Jessica Eskew - Society of Women in Physics (jre0039@auburn.edu)
Tanzila Tasnim - Community of Physicists For Inclusivity (tzt0048@auburn.edu)
Courtney Wicklund - Inclusive Graduate Programs Ambassador (czw0143@auburn.edu)
Henry Pryzgocki - Inclusive Graduate Programs Ambassador (mhp0032@auburn.edu)