Spencer Museum, The Commons, Office of Graduate Studies welcome graduate students back to campus

LAWRENCE – Three University of Kansas campus partners who serve graduate students across disciplines through their work will host a welcome-back, drop-in reception between 3-6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 27, at the Spencer Museum of Art.

Historically, this reception has served to introduce graduate students to their peers across the university while also showcasing numerous offices and centers on the Lawrence campus that offer programming, education, funding and networking opportunities for graduate students.

“As a graduate student who is new to KU, opportunities to meet other graduate students outside of the classroom is very essential to me,” said Maggie Brown-Peoples, master's student in museum studies and Andrew W. Mellon Coordinator of Academic Programs at the Spencer Museum. “It is truly important for spaces such as the Spencer Museum of Art to remind students that they belong. In times such as these, rest, rejuvenation and relaxation must be prioritized to be your best self for your community.”

This year, in an effort to provide a face-to-face meeting opportunity for graduate students, the three partners will greet students, learn about their interests and offer opportunities for further connection. Attendees will also receive free mugs and books to take home, as well as a chance to win coupons for several local businesses.

“We are really looking forward to providing a beautiful space and event for graduate students across the Lawrence campus to engage with one another,” said Nicole Reiz, director of professional development for the Office of Graduate Studies. “Meeting other students in order to build a personal and professional network while in graduate school is such an important and rewarding aspect of the graduate experience.”

The Spencer Museum of Art employs a number of graduate students whose work is integral to the larger capacity of the museum. The Commons hosts programs that bring graduate research into conversation across disciplines, and the Office of Graduate Studies supports graduate students in many ways, including assistance with professional development, funding opportunities and creating a larger network for graduate students across the university.