Graduate Students Association of Ghana - USA Congress 2025
Join us in Athens, Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ, for the 2nd Annual GRASAG-USA Congress and Anniversary Celebration, hosted by the Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ University Office of Global Affairs on the beautiful Athens campus of Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ University. This multi-day gathering brings together Ghanaian and other graduate students, alumni, and professionals from across the United States for a weekend of community, connection, and celebration.
The GRASAG-USA Congress is a unique opportunity to engage with fellow scholars and leaders through a dynamic lineup of events including networking roundtables, mentorship sessions, a research expo, a job fair, cultural activities, and an awards night. Whether you're a current student, a proud alumnus, or a valued stakeholder, this event is your chance to reconnect, share ideas, and help shape the future of our vibrant academic community.
Come be part of an inspiring weekend that highlights academic excellence, professional growth, and the power of unity among Ghanaian graduate students in the diaspora. We can’t wait to welcome you to Athens!
Schedule
Thursday, August 28, 2025:
Arrivals & Registration
Akwaaba Night & By the Fireside
- University Courtyard Apts., 7:00-9:00pm
Friday, August 29, 2025:
Online E-Voting (GRASAG-USA Elections)
- Begins, 7:30-5:00pm
Check-In and Registration
- 9:30-4:00pm, Baker 233
Research Expo
- 10:00-12:00pm, Baker 239
Group Photo
- 12:00-12:20pm, Baker Theater Reception Area
Lunch Break
- 12:00-1:50pm, Dining Halls
Professional Development Panels
- 2:00-4:00pm (Specific Panel Information Below)
Panel 1A: Applying to a PhD Program
Time: 2:00-3:00pm and Location, Baker 231
Overview:
- What does a PhD application entail? Get some advice on how to navigate requirements and expectations of PhD programs in the US to prepare a good application.
Chair:
- Dr. Joy Malaba, Analytical Research Scientist, Russ College of Engineering & Technology
Panelists:
- Dr. Felipe Aros-Vera, Associate Professor and Graduate Chair, Industrial and Systems Engineering
- Dr. Jocelyn Brown, Assistant Professor, African American Studies
- Dr. Uzoma O. Miller, Assistant Professor of Instruction & Undergraduate Advising Coordinator, African American Studies
- Dr. Edna Wangui, Professor and Chair, Geography
Panel 1B: A Career in Academia - How Do You Prepare?
Time and Location: 2:00-3:00pm, Baker 239
Overview:
- What does a PhD application entail? Get some advice on how to navigate requirements and expectations of PhD programs in the US to prepare a good application.
Chair:
- Dr. Greg Obi, Associate Professor of Management Sciences, College of Business
Panelists:
- Dr. Lisa Harrison, Professor and Dean, Teacher Education
- Dr. Nukhet Sandal, Professor and Associate Dean, Political Science
- Dr. Benjamin Tetteh, Assistant Professor, Journalism
Panel 1C: A Career After Graduate School: Joining Industry
Time and Location: 2:00-3:00pm, Baker 230
Overview:
- Leverage the knowledge, skills and experiences you’ve gained in graduate school to be a better candidate for the industry. Hear from professionals in the field about how they secured their jobs.
Panelists:
- Mrs. Vanessa Doe, Former Employee Engagement Programs and Practices Analyst, DHL Supply Chain
- Temi Adjimati, Senior Consultant, Cyber Technology Risk Professional, Nationwide Mutual Insurance
- Mr. Kingsley Lims Nyarko, Chair of Film and Video, Columbus College of Art & Design
- Mr. Kelvin Xorlali Tsagli, Product Development and Simulation Engineer, Whirlpool
GRASAG-USA Sponsored Panel: Navigating Employment Pathways
Time and Location: 3:30-4:30pm, Baker 231
Chair:
- Dr. Faustina Mensah, Success Advisor, College of Business
Speaker:
- Mr. Sampson Oboh, IT Consultant, Director of Data Pluzz, Columbus
Break
- 4:30-5:00pm
Official Opening Session
- 5:00-6:30pm, Walter 135
Bobcat Block Party & Fireworks Show (Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ Welcome Week Event)
- 6:00-10:00pm, Paw Print Park
Saturday, August 30, 2025:
Ridges Outdoor Museum Tour
- 9:00-11:00pm, Kennedy Museum of Art
Lunch Break (On Your Own)
- 12:30-1:30pm
Congress Business and 1st Senate Meeting
- 2:00-4:30pm, Walter 245
Football Game and Morale Session
- 4:30-7:00pm, West State Street Soccer Field
Grill and Gather on East Green (Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ Welcome Week Event)
- 5:00-8:00pm, Bush Hall Front Lawn
Sunday, August 31, 2025:
Awards and Handing-Over Ceremony
- 4:00-6:00pm, Baker Theater
Private Dinner (Ticketed Event)
- 7:00-8:30pm, OU Inn and Conference Center
Monday, September 1, 2025:
Depart
Airport Travel
Participants will be responsible for their travel to and from Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ University. The recommended airport for Congress is John Glenn International Airport in Columbus, Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ. Airport pickups will be arranged to transport participants, please contact Victor Dei, vd257219@ohio.edu. Please ensure that you share your flight details with the Congress Committee Chair, Dominic Asitanga, da316022@ohio.edu. Carpooling with your colleagues is recommended.
Accommodations
The following hotels are available for rent at a discounted price. Discounted room pricing is available till July 28, 2025.
- Cabin Rentals: Hocking Hills Cabins & Lodges and Vacation Rentals Bed & Breakfast - 1st Choice Lodging - Booking Link:
- Hampton Inn by Hilton – Booking link:
- Holiday Inn – Booking link:
- Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ University Inn – Booking Link:
Cost
Basic Registration $10 (includes access to opening ceremony, panels and games)
Full Registration $50 (includes basic registration plus ticket to gala dinner and awards)
Contact
Email: globalaffairs@ohio.edu