Hurray!!!

The University of Cincinnati welcomed back its American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Student Chapter on March 24, 2026, with the chapter’s first meeting following a period of inactivity. The relaunch represents an encouraging development for the profession’s next generation in the region.

The student chapter revival is being led by Grace Adkins (the student chapter president), whose initiative is driving the effort and laying the groundwork for a sustainable, active organization. She is being supported by the faculty advisors, Prof. Thomas Houston and Prof Jing Shi.

Students at UC are strongly encouraged to get involved and help shape the chapter’s direction.

The meeting opened with introductions and an overview of ASSP’s mission, vision, and the purpose of the student chapter. Several executive board positions remain open, including Vice President, Secretary, Social Media Officer, Outreach Service Officer, and Outreach Experience Officer. Interested students are encouraged to contact Grace directly.

The meeting’s discussions centered on building a strong continuity plan to ensure the chapter’s long-term sustainability, alongside recruitment strategies including career fairs and peer outreach. Members also expressed interest in hosting a Southwest Ohio ASSP chapter meeting on campus, an initiative that would strengthen ties between the student chapter and the broader professional community.

Donna Mingerink, Vice President of the Southwest Ohio ASSP Chapter, attended the meeting in a show of support on behalf of the regional chapter.

The students have agreed to convene monthly going forward.

The ASSP Southwestern Ohio Chapter is now accepting applications for its 2026 scholarship cycle. This scholarship supports students pursuing education in occupational safety, health, and related fields.

Application Deadline: March 31, 2026

[Download the scholarship application here]

Eligible students are encouraged to apply early and ensure all required materials are submitted by the deadline.

For questions regarding the application or submission of materials, please email steph.flannery@gmail.com

The WISE Mentoring program successfully connects today’s most talented and experienced women mentors with rising and aspiring mentees. This pairing is designed to encourage and empower mentees to more effectively advance their careers through alignment with identified business objective, skill development, career option consideration, and network formation. All discussions are strictly confidential between the two parties. If you are an SH&E practitioner seeking to chart a successful career path or a seasoned pro eager to share experiences and insight, please visit the ASSP WISE website for more information.

Each peer-reviewed issue of Professional Safety offers practical guidance, techniques and solutions to help occupational safety and health (OSH) professionals identify hazards, protect people, prevent injuries, improve work environments and educate management that investing in safety is a sound business strategy. Annual subscription is included with your membership.