Out of a desire to ensure a first-tier position in the emerging knowledge-based economy, representatives from Virginia’s public colleges and universities came together to form the Virginia Council of Graduate Schools (VCGS). The council’s initial goal, outlining the role of graduate education in the Commonwealth’s economic and social prosperity, resulted in the report Graduate Education in Virginia.

As graduate education becomes increasingly important for entry into many professional fields, VCGS continues to build awareness of the benefits of higher education, including reduced unemployment and increased income. In addition, the majority of graduate students in Virginia remain in the Commonwealth after graduation, contributing to the state’s workforce, tax base, and economic growth. The council’s annual Graduate Student Research Forum provides an opportunity to present current graduate student research that contributes to the economic, social, and civic development of Virginia.

VCGS also has taken on a more collaborative role with the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) and the Instructional Programs Advisory Committee (IPAC). It consults regularly with these and other public and private organizations on policies that affect graduate education.

Through its combined efforts, VCGS secured Norfolk, Virginia as the site for the 38th Annual Meeting of the Conference of Southern Graduate Schools. In February 2009, Old Dominion University, Norfolk State University, and the other VCGS member institutions hosted graduate education professionals from across the southern United States.