The SBU Graduate Arts & Sciences Magazine, known as GradMag, recently celebrated the release of its second edition titled “The Four Seasons” with a reception on April 30. The magazine, which first debuted in 2024, features 17 articles covering topics from scientific research to community cultivation, including contributions from the African Graduate Student Association. It also includes original poems and visual art.
Ava Nederlander, founder and co-executive editor of GradMag, highlighted the significant growth of the student-led initiative since its inception in 2023. She stated that membership has increased tenfold and emphasized the goal of integrating academic passions in arts and sciences while bridging communication gaps across disciplines.
Jennifer O’Connor, co-executive editor and graduate student in neurobiology and behavior, expressed gratitude for the progress made since GradMag was just an idea two years ago. She described the magazine as a collaborative effort reflecting both talent within the graduate community and interdisciplinary collaboration.
O’Connor chose “The Four Seasons” theme to symbolize the diverse perspectives each academic discipline offers. She noted that combining these perspectives leads to a more comprehensive understanding.
In January, Nederlander and O’Connor also led the inaugural B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Cross-Departmental Graduate Research Conference featuring 63 poster presenters from over 20 departments. The event included an art show, film screening, workshops, and a keynote by Stony Brook Executive Vice President Carl W. Lejuez.
Looking ahead, O’Connor announced plans to expand B.R.I.D.G.E.S., working with the Career Center to invite job recruiters from various industries to transform it into a pipeline for opportunities.
Isobel Breheny-Schafer, assistant director of student media who advised GradMag, praised Nederlander and O’Connor’s efforts in creating both a conference and magazine that highlight graduate work while fostering community on campus.
Nederlander shared future plans for GradMag including releasing a third edition and expanding initiatives like B.R.I.D.G.E.S., all aimed at supporting academic graduate student life on campus.
