COGS Faculty Advisor Transition: Honoring Dr. Joseph Konstan and Welcoming Dr. Phil Buhlmann

On January 22, 2026, the Council of Graduate Students (COGS) leadership team held a faculty advisor transition meeting to mark a new chapter in the organization’s advisory support. The meeting brought together the COGS Presidential team, including President Boluwatife OLU Afolabi and Vice-President Christine Chau, with outgoing faculty advisor Dr. Joseph Konstan and incoming advisor Dr. Phil Buhlmann. This gathering served as a formal handover to ensure the continued advocacy and stability of the graduate student body at the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Buhlman expressed his excitement to serve as an advisor for COGS and highlighted that "today’s graduate students are tomorrow’s educators, researchers, and leaders in industry, academia, and government. As skilled thinkers and problem solvers, they are and will remain crucial throughout their careers in addressing the world’s most pressing problems and in driving scientific, economic, and societal advancements."

He stated that he would draw on his knowledge gained through many years of experience in governance at different levels of the University to support the mission of COGS. To him, "COGS is critical to the University of Minnesota, as it provides advocacy for graduate students and ensures that they are represented in institutional decision-making and that their academic and personal needs are adequately addressed."

He hopes that his "perspectives and familiarity with the University of Minnesota will help the leadership of COGS excel in representing graduate students and effectively advocating on their behalf. "

The COGS community extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Joseph Konstan for his years of exceptional service and mentorship. Dr. Konstan's tenure was defined by his wisdom and unwavering guidance, which significantly advanced the cause of graduate students across the University. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the organization's ability to navigate complex institutional challenges and advocate for student success. To this end, COGS is pleased to officially welcome Dr. Phil Buhlmann as the new faculty advisor.

Following the transition meeting, the leadership team expressed immense confidence in the future, noting that the organization remains in safe hands under Dr. Buhlmann’s expertise.

The Council looks forward to building a strong, collaborative relationship with Dr. Buhlmann as they continue to address critical issues in the years to come.