Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society
Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society
The Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society (Bouchet Society) recognizes outstanding scholarly achievement and promotes diversity and excellence in doctoral education and the professoriate. Edward A. Bouchet (1852-1918) earned a Ph.D. in physics at Yale University in 1876. He was the first African American to earn a doctorate in the U.S. and only the sixth person in the western hemisphere to earn a doctorate in physics.
Inaugurated simultaneously at Yale University and Howard University in September 2005, the Bouchet Society seeks to develop a network of preeminent scholars who exemplify academic and personal excellence, foster environments of support, and serve as examples of scholarship, leadership, character, service, and advocacy for students who have been historically underrepresented in the academy. In the spirit of Dr. Bouchet’s commitment to these pursuits both inside and outside of the academic realm, inductees into the honor society bearing his name should exhibit these qualities as well.
The Chicago School became a member of the Bouchet Society in 2013. The school’s charter was presented to President Michele Nealon at the annual induction ceremony at Yale University. Representing the University as well were Drs. Orlando Taylor and Patricia Arredondo. Dr. Taylor is a founding member of the Bouchet Society.
Membership in the Bouchet Society is open to Ph.D. students from all racial and ethnic backgrounds who have outstanding academic records and are committed to using their doctoral education to advance leadership, diversity, research, and/or public service.
Mission Statement
The purpose of the Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society is to recognize outstanding scholarly achievement and promote diversity and excellence in doctoral education and the professoriate. The Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society (BGHS) seeks to develop a network of preeminent scholars who exemplify academic and personal excellence, foster environments of support, and serve as examples of scholarship, leadership, character, service, and advocacy for students who have been traditionally underrepresented in the academy. In the spirit of Edward A. Bouchet and the scholarship, leadership, character, service, and advocacy he exhibited, both inside and outside academic realms, inductees into the honor society bearing his name must also exhibit these same outstanding qualities.
Joining The Chicago School’s Chapter
Eligibility
- Enrolled in a Ph.D. program
- Must be in All But Dissertation (ABD) status: all doctoral coursework, comprehensive exams and other degree requirements complete except for the dissertation as of the semester of induction (Spring).
- Earned an overall GPA of 3.5 or higher in Ph.D coursework
- Earned Master’s degree
The Bouchet Society application process is now open. All eligible students were contacted for the 2026 application process.
Applications must include:
- Completed application form
- Chicago School unofficial transcript
- Dissertation abstract OR statement of research interest
- Statement of interest outlining what the applicant intends to bring to the Chicago School Bouchet Society chapter
- Two completed recommendation forms from two (2) department faculty members.
- Resume or CV
Applications are reviewed using a rubric to evaluate various components.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
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Bouchet Society